1275

Historic Spanish Army Machete from the Spanish American War

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:400.00 USD Estimated At:1,000.00 - 2,000.00 USD
Historic Spanish Army Machete from the Spanish American War
Spanish Army lion head machete with sheath. The machete has a heavy 16-inch clip point blade and is 2 1/4 inches wide at the hilt. The blade is boldly stamped "Fca DE TOLEDO/1871" in two lines on the obverse ricasso. The markings run perpendicular to the edge. The machete has a cast brass hilt with lion head pommel, cast scales on the grip and S-curved qullions. The scabbard has a black, bridle leather, body with sheet brass throat and tip. An old, hand-written, label attached to the scabbard states that this machete was found by Thomas Murray of B Co., 11th U.S. Infantry Regiment on the battlefield of Las Marias, Puerto Rico on August 13, 1898 and was: "Purchased by H.L.M." July 4-'99". The Battle of Las Marias took place on August 13, 1898. Six companies of the 11th U.S. Infantry engaged the Spanish 24th Rifle Battalion while it forded the Rio Prieto river near the town of Las Marias. The 11th Infantry opened fire on the 24th Rifle Battalion and quickly routed the Spanish. No U.S. troops were killed or wounded; the Spanish troops lost three men killed, 27 wounded and 56 captured. The Battle of Las Marias was the last engagement in the campaign that resulted in the capture of Puerto Rico. This is a well documented relic of a forgotten battle of the Spanish American War.
BBL:
Stock:
Gauge:
Finish:
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Condition: Very good. The machete blade has a smooth, gray patina. The blade shows age discoloration but is free form rust or pitting. The markings on the blade are clear. The cast brass guard has an attractive aged patina and is in very good condition. The sheath is in fair condition; the black leather body is cracked with some scattered flaking. The stitching on the seam on the back of the scabbard is tight. The brass throat is loose and the edges are bent. There are some minor dents in the brass tip. This is a scarce and unique Spanish American War relic.