June 12-13, 2019 Edged Weapon, Armor, & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/12/2019
31 - 3/4" blade etched and gilt with motto "One and Inseperable" on right above a trophy of arms. Left side with beautifully etched American eagle and raised relief riband etched "E Pluribus Unum". Stamped at ricasso W. Klauberg. The elaborate hilt with Liberty in high relief, crown with head of Zeus and castle. Knuckle guard with relief cast and chased U.S. Basket cast and chased with eagle and shield in high relief. Grip appears to be of solid silver, engraved with flowers and federal shield. The scabbard with elaborate mounts, cast and chased in high relief, the drag, of particular note, has a high relief angel holding a banner reading "Union Forever". CONDITION: Blade is very good retaining strong traces of gilting with strong etching, some minor rust towards tip. Hilt retains strong traces of gilding and is generally very fine. Scabbard is in very fine condition with strong traces of gilding on the mounts and most of the silver plating remaining on scabbard. None of the usual door dents. Sword retains what appears to be the original bullion knot. The iconography and quality of the high relief mounts on this sword render it a cut above the usual Civil War presentation sword and a careful cleaning with doubtless reveal much of the original gilding. The service record of Lieutenant Colonel Smith is easily researchable and sword will only get better with careful scholarship. A most attractive and unusual Civil War officer's saber.