August 18 & 19, 2020 Edged Weapons, Armor, & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/18/2020
This is a very interesting and unique Mexican War presentation sword. This is a high quality sword that does not display any maker marks but is most likely of European origin and made for a Mexican officer. This sword is one of a group of Mexican officer's swords that were captured and used as presentation swords for American officers. The scabbard displays the wonderful presentation inscription between the ring mounts: "Presented to / Lieut. J. S. McCabe / by his Company / for his Gallant Conduct in different battles in / Mexico 1847." The letters "L.P." are engraved right underneath the inscription and they are most likely the initials of the engraver. The scabbard's construction is of nickel silver with plain brass mounts. The sword has a quill back blade that is single edged and etched about half of its length on both sides. The etched decorations include floral and scroll motifs, a wide range of arms and armor, and is complete with a Mexican eagle perched on a cactus with a snake held in its beak in the center of the etchings. The brass hilt features a large half-basket knuckle guard that resembles a scallop shell with 2 rosettes at the base in the front and a folding counter guard panel on the back. The fish skin grip is wrapped in twisted brass wire that has only come loose if a few areas. The presentation on the scabbard is the highlight of the sword. Lieutenant McCabe's history is quite interesting. James S. McCabe mustered into service as the adjutant of the 2nd New York Volunteer Infantry in November 1846 and served with the regiment through the duration of the Mexican War until the regiment mustered out in August 1848. McCabe was listed as being wounded at Churubusco. There is a a brief history of the 2nd New York Volunteers included with the sword that lists Mccabe being present at Vera Cruz, Nueva Ranche, Cerro Gordo, Contreras, Churubusco, Chapultepec, and Garita de Belen. This is a very unique, documented piece of history from the Mexican War. CONDITION: Overall very good. The blade retains most of its original glossiness, but appears to have been cleaned at some point. There is minor staining but the blade remains attractive. The etching on the blade is crisp in some areas and weak in others. The grip shows light wear, specifically where the twisted brass wire has come loose. The scabbard and mounts only display light scratches and staining but has a nice patina. The inscription is crisp and intact and is in excellent condition. JD
Item Dimensions: L: 39 -1/2"