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DAY 1: Historic Arms & Armor: Revolutionary America

Sat, Jul 18, 2026 11:00AM EDT
  2026-07-18 11:00:00 2026-07-18 11:00:00 America/New_York Treasure Trove Treasure Trove : DAY 1: Historic Arms & Armor: Revolutionary America https://live.treasuretroveauctions.com/auctions/treasure-trove/day-1-historic-arms-armor-revolutionary-america-23506
Treasure Trove Auctions proudly presents Day 1 of our premier militaria event, featuring an extraordinary selection of historic American arms and relics, including some of the finest documented Revolutionary War material we have encountered, significant Civil War artifacts, American Indian pieces, and frontier-era history. Complementing this remarkable offering is our signature selection of medieval, Renaissance, and antique arms & armor, creating a truly exceptional sale spanning centuries of warfare. Now is your chance to acquire tangible history from all eras of military history!
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Lot 522

Colonial or Revolutionary War Period Belt Axe with Bairrad Mark & JM Initials

Starting Bid
$50

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $25
$100 $50
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,500
$50,000 $5,000

This Colonial or American Revolutionary War period belt axe is a strong hand-forged example with a head measuring approximately 7 1/2 inches by 3 1/2 inches. The left side of the head is struck with “Bairrad”, possibly a maker’s mark, while the right side is crudely carved with the initials “JM”. The head shows typical forging marks, areas of light pitting, smooth gray metal, patches of darkening, and old rust patina. The cutting edge remains fairly sharp and shows a few normal small nicks and blemishes from use. The head is fitted to the haft using an iron wedge. The round haft measures approximately 20 1/2 inches overall and appears to be an older replacement, showing evidence of refinish, intermittent light handling marks, dark age staining, and a 1 1/2 inch crack below the head.

Belt axes were essential tools and weapons in the Colonial American and Revolutionary War period, carried by soldiers, militia, frontiersmen, Native allies, scouts, and settlers. They served practical roles in camp work, wood processing, fortification, field survival, and close-quarters defense. Unlike formal swords or officer polearms, the belt axe occupied the everyday world of frontier and military life, where a single tool could be both utilitarian and deadly. Marked examples are especially interesting because maker names, owner initials, or field inscriptions add research value and personal character.

This is a very appealing early American-style belt axe with honest age, use, and personality. The possible Bairrad maker mark, carved JM initials, hand-forged surface, sharp working edge, iron-wedged haft, and period-appropriate wear make it a strong piece for collectors of Revolutionary War era tools, frontier weapons, militia equipment, and Colonial American material culture.

Dimensions: Head measures approximately 7 1/2 inches by 3 1/2 inches. Haft measures approximately 20 1/2 inches overall.

★ ★ ★
Good - Noticeable wear from age and use but remains structurally sound. Considered average condition for most collectibles and memorabilia. Minor imperfections or signs of handling may be present but do not detract from the overall integrity of the item.


Condition assessed using Treasure Trove Auctions’ proprietary grading scale. While we strive for accuracy, all ratings are subjective and based on our best evaluation as determined by a dedicated team of researchers, from expert appraisers to knowledgeable historians and veteran collectors. Full grading details can be found on our Authentication page for reference. For a more in-depth condition report or additional images, please contact us and we will be more than happy to oblige.

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