December 10, 2019 Edged Weapon, Armor & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/10/2019
Regulation 1850 Foot officer sword with articulated silver grip and metal scabbard. Grip is cast as a series of folds running over the ribs of the grip with triple wire binding in the channels. Standard configuration floral designs on edge of pommel and in guard. Guard castings are deep and detailed. Blade etched with single panel on either side. Reverse with US at center, obverse with spread-winged American eagle with arrows and olive branch over ribbon with drypoint motto. "H. Folsom / St. Louis" etched above ricasso obverse. Reverse shows Collins and Company blade maker stamp with 1862 date. Metal scabbard with foliate engraved brass mounts and brass throat. Folsom was jeweler and is perhaps best known as the maker or assembler of an elaborate sword bearing a presentation inscription to General Grant. CONDITION: Excellent, though with some minor pushed to the grip on the lower reverse, where one's fingers would rest. Wire is in place. Gilt is good on face of counterguard and recesses elsewhere. Blade is smooth and bright with visible frosting and etching. Very minor occasional grey spots that are almost invisible. Deep lustrous blue-brown to scabbard with nice mellow tone to brass mounts. A very nice sword with a metal scabbard in anticipation of hard service. Missouri was a hotbed of political activity and fierce border warfare. St. Louis maker marked arms and equipment are scarce. SR