GUN SPRING 2018
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/21/2018
HIGH GRADE EMERSON AND SILVER STAFF OFFICER'S SWORD PRESENTED TO CAPTAIN THOMAS HERBERT, 3RD MASSACHUSETTS HEAVY ARTILLERY.This is a beautiful presentation with a Palmer's & Bachelders, Boston agent marking. The sword is made by Emerson and Silver with their distinctive Keystone mark and the scabbard is made by Ames being solid brass with engraved patriotic panels and presentation between mounts "PRESENTED TO / CAPT. THOMAS HERBERT / 11 UNATTACHED CO. HY. ARTILLERY MASS. VOLS / BY THE MEMBERS OF HIS COMPANY / FORT INDEPENDENCE OCT. 1863 / HONOR THE BRAVE". Ft. Independence was a Boston fort where this sword was presented. We have noted two other examples, almost identical, with engraved brass Ames scabbards, Emerson & Silver blades, hilts, silver grips with eagle head quillons with ruby eyes, all Boston presentations. Thomas Herbert was born in 1822, enlisted in Lynn, Massachusetts, April 29, 1862 and was discharged May 3, 1865. This sword was presented to him upon his promotion to Captain, October 1, 1863. SIZE: PROVENANCE: The spectacular collections of Ray Bentley featuring the finest and rarest deluxe antique Winchesters in the world. CONDITION: Extremely fine overall. 31" blade retains most of its orig luster with 24" etched patriotic panels. Scabbard and hilt retain most of their orig gold plating with some losses on pommel and hilt which have toned to a mixed mustard/chocolate patina. 53094-148 JS (4,000-5,000)