June 12-13, 2019 Edged Weapon, Armor, & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/12/2019
The 34" blade with double fuller etched and gilt with large eagle on right in relief E Pluribus Unum in riband, left with large US and iron proof towards forte. Right side makers name, W.H. Horstmann and Sons, Philadelphia. Gilt brass hilt pierced with American eagle atop Union shield. Pommel with shield and acanthus leaves. Pommel nut in the form of a pineapple. D guard with baluster decoration. Scabbard with gilt brass mounts comprosing trophy of arms with eagle at chape, elaborate presentation reading" Presented by the Members/ of Compy H / National Guard/ To / Major Alexander McCuen/ As a Testimonial of their Respect. March 1865" Major McCuen was a Captain at Gettysburg made famous due to his decapitation of the color-bearer of the 3rd Virginia and claiming his banner. General Alexander S. Webb witnessed McCuen's attack and complimented him highly for it. Middle mount with relief portrait bust of General Washington below saber and laurels. Chape with Romanesque trophy of arms comprising Roman faces and Union shield. CONDITION: Blade is excellent with most of its original bright polish and very little staining. Frosting in etched panels is fine. Gilding present in U.S. and eagle. Hilt retains nearly 100% of its bright fire gilding with only minor losses. Silver grip with elaborate triple strand twisted wire. Scabbard mounts retain much original bright gilding. Nickel on scabbard has been refreshed at some point. A similar sword presented to a Medal of Honor winner was sold in the 1990s at Butterfields for $25,000. McCuen undoubtedly would have received the medal of honor but apparently preferred the brevet promotion. This is a most historic and attractive Civil War sword and we are pleased to offer it.
Paperwork
Book, History, Provenance