Benjamin Franklin’s Sword

Arms & Armour specialist Howard Dixon, and two descendants of the man to whom Franklin presented his sword, discuss this remarkable emblem of friendship between nations.

This court sword is a testament to the diplomatic, scientific and intellectual achievements of America’s foremost statesman, Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790).

After representing his country’s interests in London during the events leading up to 1776, Franklin secured military and financial support from the French government for the American Revolution.

His was a victory as great as any fought in combat, since the struggle for American independence depended greatly upon French intervention.