Spanish Colonial American Espada Ancha commonly found in the territories of New Spain (the southwestern United States and Mexico). These were used by various Spanish military units - assigned to the various presidios - and by local rancheros. This particular example was found near Roswell, New Mexico and is a-typical of the standard espada ancha. Whereas normally these swould have broad multi-fullered blades - common circa 1700 to early 1900 - this one has a shortened rapier-style blade without fullers - common circa 1700 to early 1800s. This sword will probably date from 1750 to about 1850. Overall length is ~29-3/4" and construction is entirely of iron.

Hilt is ~4-1/4" in length and made entirely of iron. D-shaped knuckle bow (guard), single forward-swept upper quillon; grip is octagonal in shape and blade tang is peened onto pommel; very simple turned-down clam-shell guard.

Blade is double-edged rapier or small-sword style, unfullered, measuring ~25-1/2" in length.

Scabbards were usually of leather and almost none are found on the collector market.