BASKET HILT SWORD #5

     
      This sword has a "beaknose" hilt so called because of the steel crossguard that extends beyond the basket. It is also called a "ribbon-hilt" for the thin, flat, steel plates that form the basket. This type of hilt was popular in 17th century Scotland.

      The sword was donated by the estate of Dan Gilles of Ontario, Canada. It may have come from the collection of the Earl of Graham.