November 7-8, 2018 Edged Weapons, Armor, & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/8/2018
Slightly curved steel blade with two partial fullers on each side and etched panels on both sides. Both sides with flags and arms motifs. The right side with "PHILADELPHIA" stamped on ricasso, and "HORSTMANN & CO" on other. Cast brass hilt with pierced guard featuring florals and foliate scrolls. Sharkskin wrapped wooden grip with twisted brass wire wrap, complete with associated gold sword knot and. Complete with associated scabbard wrapped in sharkskin, throat mount inscribed on right side "Louis Blenker/ 8th N.Y.V.I.". CONDITION: Fair. Blade shows heavy wear and retains a grey patina with some dark spotting and corrosion. Hilt retains traces of gilt finish in protected areas in protected areas and scattered marks from use. Grip good with some minor losses and wear. Scabbard mounts retain a dark patina and there is one crack running along the top between the drag and center mount. Sword does not fit entirely into the scabbard. Louis Blenker, born in Worms, Germany, was a trained goldsmith who eventually settled in on a farm in New York and ran a small business. Upon the outbreak of the Civil War, Blenker organized the 8th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment, of which he became colonel. For his gallantry, he was raised in rank to Brigadier General of volunteers.