Historic Swords & Battle Flags
The Swords and Flags collection — anchored by the celebrated Gladium Collection — represents what many authorities consider the greatest assemblage of American military edged weapons and battle flags ever handled by a private dealer. The Gladium Collection of the greatest American swords ever collected includes Colonel Richard Johnson's gold War of 1812 sword (Johnson is credited with killing Shawnee Chief Tecumseh), Major General Rufus King's presentation sword from Second Bull Run, and General Davidson's gold, silver, and diamond presentation sword.
Gary Hendershott's mastery of this field is unrivaled. Among the Confederate edged weapons he has handled are General Nathan Bedford Forrest's sword, General William Mahone's sword, the unique Duhfilo pelican sword, Confederate Kraft, Goldsmith and Kraft CS staff swords, and Confederate naval swords from the blockade-running fleet. Beyond American shores, the collection extends to a presentation sword of King George IV of England and Revolutionary War edged weapons from the founding of the Republic.
The battle flags in this collection are equally extraordinary: JEB Stuart's personal battle flag, the Stonewall Brigade battle flag, Confederate 3rd National battle flags, the Fort Donelson flag, the 2nd Georgia Sharpshooters battle flag, the CSA 1st National Liberty or Death flag, Missouri Confederate battle flags, and Virginia 1st National flags. These irreplaceable textile relics bore the smoke, chaos, and sacrifice of combat and represent the highest level of Civil War flag collecting.
The Gladium Collection
The greatest American swords ever collected, including Colonel Richard Johnson's gold War of 1812 sword (Johnson killed Shawnee Chief Tecumseh), Major General Rufus King's presentation sword from Second Bull Run, and General Davidson's gold, silver, and diamond presentation sword. This legendary collection redefined what was possible in the private collecting of American edged weapons.
General Officer Presentation Swords
Lavishly decorated blades presented to commanding officers by grateful states, cities, and comrades, representing the highest expression of the American swordmaker's art. These include Nathan Bedford Forrest's sword, General William Mahone's Crater sword, and other presentation blades of breathtaking artistry and impeccable provenance.
Confederate Battle Flags
Among the rarest textile relics of the Civil War, including JEB Stuart's personal battle flag, the Stonewall Brigade battle flag, Confederate 3rd National battle flags, the 2nd Georgia Sharpshooters flag, the CSA 1st National Liberty or Death flag, and the Fort Donelson flag. Each one witnessed the smoke, chaos, and sacrifice of combat firsthand.
Confederate Naval Swords
Edged weapons from the Confederate Navy, among the rarest of all Civil War swords. These blades served aboard blockade runners and ironclads during the desperate Confederate naval campaign. The collection also includes the unique Duhfilo pelican sword and Confederate Kraft, Goldsmith and Kraft CS staff swords.
King George IV of England Sword
A royal presentation sword of exceptional artistry and provenance from the King of England, connecting the traditions of European monarchy to the broader history of military edged weapons. This piece demonstrates the international scope of Gary's expertise beyond American arms.
Revolutionary War Edged Weapons
Swords and sabers from the founding of the Republic, when American independence was still an uncertain proposition decided by steel and courage. These blades were carried by the officers who fought alongside Washington, and they represent the earliest chapter in the story of American military edged weapons.
Related Collections
Civil War
Confederate and Union artifacts of the highest order.
Presidential
Museum-quality presidential memorabilia and artifacts of national significance.
Historic Firearms
Colts, Winchesters, and firearms that shaped the American frontier and battlefield.
Interested in Swords or Battle Flags?
Gary Hendershott is the nation's leading dealer in historic American edged weapons and battle flags. Whether you seek a presentation sword, a Confederate battle flag, or wish to consign a collection, a confidential inquiry is welcome.
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