As these are grouped, in the first photo, from top to bottom,
1. These are classified by Levine (1985) as Central American dirk, seeming to be mid to latter 19th c. though he does not specify period.
2.This does appear to be an espada ancha, which technically refers to the stirrup guard hangers with large heavy SE blades of latter 18th into 19th.
These were the utilitarian hangers worn by the 'Soldado's de Cuera' or leather jacket presidial troopers in the northern frontiers of New Spain (Mexico).
This one does appear to have two branches no longer present, and as such was one of the variant espada types with such branches as seen in #3.
These according to Adams (1985) are termed 'round tang espadas' or in other references 'gavilan' ( for the branches).
The cross hatch in the bone is a motif apparent in many of these, which also are known in the same regions of Mexico as the espada ancha
3. As described above, the branched espada, but what is most interesting is the sectioned grip with metal insert at center, just as seen on the grip of #1 which as noted is stated Central America. It is tempting to presume these grips are regionally connected between these two forms, however the lack of regulation and clear diffusion of forms would preclude being accurate with this. Still it is important to observe and note .
Often the character and features of many of these swords of New Spain from South and Central America through Mexico and into American southwest was well diffused as far west as the Philippines, the outer sector of the Spanish Main in that direction.
Fantastic examples!!! and while to many these seem crude, they have a rugged charm which reflects the fascinating history of these Spanish colonial regions. It is not unusual to see these altered or refurbished with somewhat incongruent components or sometimes removed as with the example noted.
In the remote outposts of these frontiers, most everything was recycled or repurposed as much as possible.
With the numbers on the blade of the 'dirk', this seems in line with what were possibly lot or batch numbers of blades from German mfg. as I have seen sometimes on similar examples.
The E.S. in the cartouche may be initials, but more likely for a unit as many of regiments etc were named rather than numbered, especially in the very common cases of para military units. It would take quite a bit of research and luck to define I think.
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