GUN SPRING 2016
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/14/2016
CONFEDERATE STATES ARMORY STAFF OFFICER'S SWORD.This is no doubt the singularly most popular of all Confederate officer's swords. This pattern with cast letters "CSA" forming the hilt was made by the Confederate States Armory in Kenansville, NC. This efficient & large sword manufacturing operation was run by Louis Froelich. The 2009 text by John McAden & Chris Fonvielle Louis Froelich: Arms-Maker to the Confederacy shows identical examples & explains the evolution of the Wilmington Sword Factory to one of the largest Confederate manufacturers of edged weapons and accoutrements, the "Confederate States Armory". This particular example has particularly long 32-1/2" blade with unstopped fuller. Scabbard is typical of this manufacturer with peened brass throat & brass ring mounts on lap seamed braised scabbard. Scabbard throat has assembly "XVIII" cut into top. Hilt has Roman numeral "I" cut into hilt; though assembly numbers are not matching, sword fits scabbard perfectly. SIZE: CONDITION: Very good overall. Blade is cleaned with staining & light pitting. Protective washer replaced, tang re-peened by professional conservator. Scabbard is sound with moderate to heavy pitting below lower ring mount with about 1" resin repair abutting correct iron drag on reverse. Grip & wire wrap appear orig though softer than usual with wear & small reductions at high areas. Brass hilt, pommel, ferrule & scabbard mounts have light mustard colored patina. 50194-4 JS (15,000-18,000)