2151
Connecticut Minuteman's Sword and Commission
Estimate:
$1,800 - $2,500
Sold
$5,500
Live Auction
November 5th, 2021 Gallery Auction l Americana Historical Documents, Memorabilia, & Weapons
Category
Description
Comprising: 1) Part-printed commission of Andrew Backus as Captain in the 11th Conn. Regiment, October 18, 1774, 7 1/4 x 12 in., signed by Gov. Jonathan Trumbull; red Connecticut state wax seal; framed; and 2) An officer's sabre, the blade with single broad fuller, 32 1/4 in. L., brass hilt with acorn-shaped pommel and carved horn grip, 38 in. L. overall. Backus (1733-1796), a veteran of the French and Indian War, was captain of a company of Minutemen from Plainfield, CT, and marched with them to Boston shortly after the Battles of Lexington and Concord. In 1777, he was promoted to Major in 21st Regt. of CT Militia.
Condition
The blade with widespread light pitting; a deep hack toward the tip and other light hacks
Provenance
From the estate of a Maryland collector. Purchased from Guthman Americana, November, 1995, with his descriptive invoice.
