This extraordinary saber features a mortuary hilt that dates to the mid-17th century during the Cromwell period in England. However, the fine, curved blade dates from the mid to late 18th century and was likely remounted on an early family hilt. This elaborate mortuary-hilted sword probably belonged to a very wealthy British family around 1640–60 and was re-hilted with a more modern blade in keeping with military fashion during the late 18th century. The sword itself measures 37 1/4" overall with a 30 3/4" blade. The plain, flat blade has a 9” false edge and is heavily stamped on each side with the armorer’s mark of John Allen, who worked during the 18th century at the armory in the Tower of London. The spectacular iron hilt has an intricately pierced semi-basket-style guard featuring three faces on each side of the hilt. There are 3 primary branches and 4 secondary branches that form the semi-basket hilt. The pommel is decorated and loosely separated into quadrants. The grip, if not original, is certainly quite early and appears to be sharkskin with brass wire Turk’s head knot ferrules above and below. No scabbard. CONDITION: blade is in exceptional condition with a light gray finish and only a few scattered nicks to the edge. The hilt has a rich, dark, ancient patina but shows no notable damage. One branch of the guard has separated from the pommel slightly, possibly from a sword strike. The grip is quite solid, with no losses. (02-22677/BF). $5,000-7,000.