December 14-17, 2021 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/14/2021
Nice example of Confederate foot officer's sword complete with its leather scabbard. The 29" blade features an unstopped fuller with signs of slight casting flaws. This example is unmarked but the blade is similar to those found on Dufilho swords. Like most confederate makers, sources for brass, iron, and steel varied in quality which is evidenced through the discolored brass guard that exhibits a dark reddish brown hue. The guard features typical floral scrolls which are often encountered on foot officer swords. Following the guard is the grooved, center-swelled wooden handle that is wrapped with leather and held together with braided brass wire. More foliate scrolls follow the handle and lead to the domed pommel. The sword is complete with its original leather scabbard. The scabbard features 2 brass mounts which are similar to the mounts on Dufilho scabbards, as well as a brass drag. CONDITION: The bade exhibits a pleasant dark gray patina with areas of pitting and surface rust. About 1/16" of the tip is rounded. The guard exhibits a pleasing dark patina that compliments the original reddish brown brass. The grip exhibits leather loss around the wood handle and the brass wire has come loose in some areas, but the grip remains sturdy. The scabbard exhibits flaking, cracking and areas of leather loss but remains flexible. Both of the mounts are loose and slide on the scabbard. The lower mount is missing the nail that would hold the mount in place. The drag is also missing the nail and will slide off of the scabbard. It appears that it was once reattached, as there is evidence of glue under the drag. The brass components of the scabbard have darkened with age. This is a very nice example of an honest confederate foot officer's sword. Overall good. JLD