November 15 & 16, 2022 Extraordinary Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/15/2022
Patinaed presentation grade Model 1850 foot officer’s sword that features a slightly curved blade with small fuller just below the spine and wider center fuller that is halted by the ricasso. The blade is devoid of maker markings but is nicely decorated with etched motifs for more than half of its length. On the obverse, the etchings form just above the ricasso, beginning with foliate scrolls which travel toward a stand of arms, spread winged federal eagle, and patriotic banner, ending with more foliate scrolls contained in a column that terminates with sun rays. The reverse features similar motifs with a stand of arms above the scrolled letters “US” at the center of the blade. The brass guard features neat open work foliate and floral scrolls, terminating with a leafy quillon. Knucklebow is rather plain and connects to the pommel which is decorated with laurel leaves that flank a patriotic shield and lead to a tiered cap with nice stippling. The grip is of wood, wrapped with high quality sharkskin, and grooved in order to accommodate double twisted brass wire. The sword is complete with its brass mounted leather scabbard. The upper and middle mount each feature a single band which accommodates a carry ring. Middle mount and dray are simply line engraved, while the upper mount features nicely engraved scroll designs and stippling. The sword is nicely inscribed on the upper mount, “Presented to / Capt. Wm. H. Jordan / By the Members of the /Baltimore Military School / as a token of respect as a Military Teacher.” contained in a shield. Jordan remains unidentified, but the presentation likely dates 1850 to 1870 from the pattern of the sword. Several officers are possibilities, but none with certain connections to military schools and his rank may derive from a state, U.S., C.S., or even school appointment. The Baltimore Military School is believed to have been the Catonsville Military Institute, formerly St. Timothy’s Hall. CONDITION: The blade exhibits a gray patina with scattered freckling throughout its length. The guard exhibits a pleasing dark patina with scattered blemishes and spotting from age and wear. Handling wear is evident on the grip with scattered scuffs and tight wire. The scabbard remains as 1 piece with obvious loss, scuffs, creases, and other blemishes throughout its length. Mounts have a pleasing dark patina. Drag exhibits a significant dent. The presentation remains crisp and legible. The sword was displayed outside of its scabbard and is challenging to sheathe. A nice example of a Civil War era presentation school which deserves further research.
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