The New York City Police Department is investigating the December 13, 2008, theft of three antique Mexican swords from a sports utility vehicle parked on East 57th Street while the owner was making trips from the vehicle to his apartment.
A brass-hilt Mexican cavalry sword with scabbard, mid-Nineteenth Century, was one of the swords reported stolen. It is described as similar to US Civil War models. The sword is marked “AC Mexico” on one side of the ricasso and “RM” with “liberty cap” on the other. Overall, the sword is 41 inches, with a blade length of 33 inches.
Another sword has a bone grip with the name “Manuel Navarro” carved on it, as well as the Mexican eagle and tequila symbols. The sword has a curved blade and is engraved with the scenes of tequila making, naked ladies, drinking and the motto “viva el maguey.” Measuring 32 inches long overall, the sword has the early Mexican screwed guard construction (one bar absent). There appears to be a professional repair to the blade.
The third one is a rusty early machete with eagle head pommel. It is crude and early, with primitive decoration and is 27 inches long overall.
There is a reward being offered for information leading to the return of these items, which are collectively valued at $3,500. Contact Detective Wozniak of the New York City Police Department’s 17th Precinct at 212- 826-3211, reference complaint number 2009-017-00048.
