V.N... on Filipino Scabbards

[Rafngard]

Mubahay!

I'm a new collector, and I have two pieces with V.N.<something> carved on them.
The first is a Samal Barung with V.N.B.E.L carved on the back of the scabbard. After receiving it, I did a google (and forum) search, found nothing, and shruged.

But today, I received a second piece, a (I think Vasayan garab) with V.N.III carved on the front of the scabbard.

I have a strong suspicion that both are WWII bring backs, and perhaps the V is for "Victory," commonly seen on WWII bring backs. But the N (let alone the other letters), I have no clue. :shrug:

I'm hoping someone on the forums will be able to educate me on this. I'm happy to hear any theories. :confused:

Thanks in advance,
Leif

[Battara]

Mabuhay Rafngard!

Welcome to our little forum! :D

For the barong, it looks a little older than WWII, although I think it was reinforced with the brass bands in WWII. I would think perhaps 1910s. Could be Samal, but little hard to ascertain for certain depending on age.

Regarding the other bolo, I would agree with you that it looks like a form of Visayan garab or talibon, possibly from the 1930s?

Better pictures would help. Please post them when the pieces come in.

Salamat!

[Rafngard]

Hello Battara,

I'll post more pics of the talibon, along with it's brother, in a new thread shortly. I've posted the Barung here before. Right here.

http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=20087

Any thoughts on the V.N.<something>. Two very different pieces is a heck of a coincidence.

Salamat,
Leif