July 12-14, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/12/2022
A very attractive example of a US non-regulation officer's sword. These swords were imported in some quantity and were preferred by many officers as a field sword due to its sturdy steel scabbard. Modeled on the British Pattern 1827 sword for rifle officers, the hilts and scabbard mounts were constructed of metals like iron or, in this case, brass. Import swords of this style are usually German made, and this one is clearly marked “W. Clauberg / Solingen” around the firm’s trademark standing knight on the reverse ricasso. The blade is slightly curved, with single edge and spear point. Both sides are etched. The obverse features a patriotic spread winged eagle, perched on a banner that reads "E PLURIBUS UNUM", flanked by floral scrolls, followed by more scrolls and vines contained in a stylized geometric spire just above the ricasso. The reverse features floral scrolls which flank a large script “U.S.” followed by more scrolls and vines that mirror the obverse designs just above the ricasso. As is common in the pattern, the “gothic” hilt with scrolls and arches replaces the cut-out British hunting horn with an American spread winged eagle, clutching arrows and an olive branch, over an openwork “U.S.”, and with a banner held in its beak. The engraved details include the U.S. motto, detailed eagle feathers, and a menacing expression on the eagle's face. The center swelled wood grip is wrapped in high quality sharkskin with triple wire binding. The pommel has grooved top, channeled base, and a smooth backstrap terminating at a ferrule just under the guard. The sword is complete with its steel scabbard that features brass mounts. The mounts are unadorned. CONDITION: The blade remains bright with crisp etchings which flash when the sword is unsheathed. Light areas of spotting are noticed, but do not detract from the quality of the blade. The brass hilt exhibits a pleasing mellow patina with scattered dark spots. Some of the brass wires are loose but the sharkskin remains firmly secured to the grip. The scabbard exhibits a dark gray and chocolate patina, especially towards the drag. The mounts exhibit a matching patina to the hilt. Pitting evident on the scabbard body. Overall good. A fine example of a popular U.S. officer’s sword. JLD