Debra, did you ever figure out the value of your sword? I am also looking for an appraisal for this type of sword. I have one that looks identical, but it is in horrible condition, nearly completely rusted, no sword handle, just the sheath with the sword rusted inside of it. The design/marking on the shield (silver-colored) of the man with what looks like columns he is trying to knock down like biblical Samson did, a ribbon tied in a bow, & the letters FOB are also there. It looks just like yours. If I have one, and you have one, perhaps they are not actually very valuable, as old as we think, or from France? or Medivel times? Yours looks great, though! I'm thinking they are Masonic swords and fairly recently made? Hope I'm wrong!
These are generally "Fraternal Order" swords, ceremonial pieces used by officers in mens' Lodges. At one point there were over 1500 differenct lodges operating in North America, each withn their own regalia. The swords generally sell for $50.00 and up depending on the condition and the lodge it represents.
Amazingly, I have owned a sword just like this one. Same helmet top, same wrapping on the handle, same warriors on the scabbard and sword. Mine had a great deal of work on the blade as well, including the name of a previous owner in gold on the blade. I couldnt find any specific details on it, but I do know this... it is not Masonic and not terribly old.
I saw another one at an antique fair a few years back as well. Considering that I sold mine about ten years ago, I would have no idea what a current value would be. So much is placed on condition and those variables. With a number of them around, surely someone knows where they originate!
I found out more about these swords...they were made from 1875-1925. Online searching, I typed in FOB Swords and FCB Swords and found the history, photos of these swords, etc. Depending on the condition, the swords can be worth around $500 or less, or whatever collectors want to pay for them.
Re: VERY OLD AUTHENTIC SWORD
Debra, did you ever figure out the value of your sword? I am also looking for an appraisal for this type of sword. I have one that looks identical, but it is in horrible condition, nearly completely rusted, no sword handle, just the sheath with the sword rusted inside of it. The design/marking on the shield (silver-colored) of the man with what looks like columns he is trying to knock down like biblical Samson did, a ribbon tied in a bow, & the letters FOB are also there. It looks just like yours. If I have one, and you have one, perhaps they are not actually very valuable, as old as we think, or from France? or Medivel times? Yours looks great, though! I'm thinking they are Masonic swords and fairly recently made? Hope I'm wrong!
Re: VERY OLD AUTHENTIC SWORD
These are generally "Fraternal Order" swords, ceremonial pieces used by officers in mens' Lodges. At one point there were over 1500 differenct lodges operating in North America, each withn their own regalia. The swords generally sell for $50.00 and up depending on the condition and the lodge it represents.
Re: VERY OLD AUTHENTIC SWORD
Amazingly, I have owned a sword just like this one. Same helmet top, same wrapping on the handle, same warriors on the scabbard and sword. Mine had a great deal of work on the blade as well, including the name of a previous owner in gold on the blade. I couldnt find any specific details on it, but I do know this... it is not Masonic and not terribly old.
I saw another one at an antique fair a few years back as well. Considering that I sold mine about ten years ago, I would have no idea what a current value would be. So much is placed on condition and those variables. With a number of them around, surely someone knows where they originate!
Re: VERY OLD AUTHENTIC SWORD
Hi. Thanks for your comments.
I found out more about these swords...they were made from 1875-1925. Online searching, I typed in FOB Swords and FCB Swords and found the history, photos of these swords, etc. Depending on the condition, the swords can be worth around $500 or less, or whatever collectors want to pay for them.
Have a blessed day!