An American silver-hilted lion pommel sword carried by Captain William Rice, probably Rhode Island, circa 1770-1780

silver lion-head pommel engraved with unusual mask-style facial features surmounts a wood grip overlaid with alternating silver band and twisted silver-wire binding; the grip inset into a line-decorated ferrule over a pierced and engraved silver guard suspended from which is a double chain-guard of twisted silver-wire held at the top by the lion's bite, extended silver scabbard-keeper engraved W. RICE;  brown leather scabbard set with two mounts each with a ring, the upper-most engraved with monogram WR

The Vincent J. Palange Collection, No. 19
Acquired by Dr. Lattimer, 27 October 1971
(Lattimer, No. 345)

Richard A. Bourne Auctions, 27 October 1971, Lot 285
Hartzler, p. 18, No. 26

leather scabbard with losses and wear, fragile especially below center mount
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

First Lieutenant William Rice was an officer in the 3rd Vacant Company of the German Regiment, Pennsylvania under the command of Colonel Lewis Weltner at Valley Forge in March, 1778.  He signed the Oath of Allegiance at Valley Forge later that year.