An antique MC Lilley Co fraternal sword, made in Columbus, Ohio, late 19th/early 20th Century
“The M. C. Lilley & Co.” Columbus OH seem to have made this sword (dating it between 1882-1925). Ivory handle. Seems to have had a poison tip in the past. Found at an antique store in Virginia. Shop owner said he bought it in an auction from Virginia himself. Has the lettering J. W. Joey on the sword. Knight helmet on the end of the hilt with Templar-esque insignia. Found additional info about the creators on- https://www.usmilitariaforum.com/forums/index.php?/topic/340320-mc-lilley-co-columbus-ohio-makers-of-insignia/
Lack of tape measurer so about 3 feet long. 4/5 inches across at the hilt.
Secondhand Store
Yes
Hi Seth,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
This sword by M.C. Lilley & Co. with "Memento Mori" engraved on it is likely a ceremonial or fraternal piece rather than a combat weapon. M.C. Lilley & Co., established in Columbus, Ohio, in 1865, was renowned for manufacturing swords, military regalia, and ceremonial items, especially for fraternal organizations like the Freemasons, Knights Templar, and other societies.
The phrase "Memento Mori" means "Remember you must die" in Latin. It was often used as a reminder of mortality and the importance of living a virtuous life.
This phrase would be particularly significant for fraternal orders or religious organizations, where themes of mortality, spirituality, and the afterlife are central.
The name "J.W. Joey" does not turn anything up in a Google search but they were probably the original owner of this sword.
Such a sword was likely ceremonial, used in rituals, parades, or fraternal meetings.
M.C. Lilley & Co. specialized in highly ornate and symbolic swords, often customized with engravings and designs specific to the organization. When other MC LIlley & Co swords have been offered at auction, they usually sell for between $100-150, with less ornate swords bringing between $50-75. Your sword is a more ornate example worth $100-150.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
An antique MC Lilley Co fraternal sword
made in Columbus, Ohio, late 19th/early 20th Century
The pommel in the form of a knights head, with a bone grip engraved on one side with a monogram on one side and a cross and triangle on the other, the cast cross-guard and rain guard or chappe bearing the cross and crown, the blade etched with figures, a "Memento Mori" skull and crossbones and the name "J.W. Joey," in a cast scabbard.
Approximately 36 inches long; hilt 4-5 inches
CONDITION: This sword appears to be in good condition.
PROVENANCE: Purchased from an antiques store in Virginia
$100-150*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia
To add, I may be completely wrong and it could NOT be an ivory handle. I apologize but this is the first time I have ever bought a sword at all. It just spoke to me.
That's the best reason for buying this!
You're all set with this appraisal, Seth, thanks.
Here is another link about selling ivory:
https://www.fws.gov/frequently-asked-questions-about-elephant-ivory
That said, the grip on this could also be polished bone, which has no restrictions on selling.
Hi Delia,
The base of the blade has an imprint saying Memento Mon with a skull on it, and the antique shop seller said that signified it was that at one point. I may be completely wrong as he himself did not seem to know very much about the sword.
When I clicked on the link you provided, it said the webpage was unreachable.
Apologies and thank you for your assistance!
Seth