July 12-14, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/12/2022
Nice example of a Civil War Confederate CS Star Artillery Short Sword. It is believed that these CS Star Artillery Short Swords were fabricated by a number of Southern manufacturers including the Confederate States Armory of Wilmington, North Carolina, W.J. McElroy of Macon, Georgia, and E. J. Johnston & Co., who also resided in Macon, Georgia. It is believed that E.J. Johnston & Co. manufactured around 150 of these swords for use by the Choctaw Artillery. Produced in several variations, this example exhibits notable Confederate markings which make it stand out among other short swords of the period. These swords also stand out due to their crudeness compared to other short swords which were used during the era. Designed based off of the U.S. Model 1832 Artillery Short Sword, this crude duplication features an unmarked, straight, double-edged blade with a single stopped fuller. The hilt is of cast brass and features a slightly curved crossguard with the letters "CS" roughly cast on each side. The grip features cast ribs which lead up to a domed pommel that exhibits a star impression on either side. The hilts of these short swords were hollow cast, thus resulting in significant flaws once removed from the mold. Many examples of these Confederate short swords are plagued with various casting flaws which include minor issues and in some cases major issues including holes in the brass which penetrate to the core of the hilt. Unlike the superior riveted hilt of the Ames Model 1832 Artillery Short Sword, the brass hilt, pommel, and crossguard on these Confederate swords were cast as one integral unit which was then affixed to the blade. As a result of the affixing process, the hilt produces a slight wobble when handled. The brass hilt does not exhibit evidence of high copper content, however there is a slight reddish hue around the crossguard. The sword is complete with its original black leather scabbard. The scabbard features a lower brass fitting with stud mount, however the drag was separated from the sword long ago. There is ghosting where the drag was once mounted to the scabbard. CONDITION: The blade exhibits a light gray patina with scattered large areas of spotting throughout its length. Edge wear is exhibited to both sides of the blade. The blade exhibits a slight bend and the tip is warped. The crudely cast hilt features flaws typical of Confederate produced edged weapons. One 1/4" hole is noticed on the crossguard. There are several dents and dings which are spread throughout the hilt. The scabbard exhibits cracks and creases as well as areas of loss throughout its construction. Seam remains tight. Brass mount exhibits a pleasing dark patina and produces a slight wobble, much like the hilt. Overall good. PROVENANCE: The sword is accompanied by a previous description which states this sword was sold by Rebel Relics. Although this sword is rather coarse compared M1832 Short Sword, this CS Star Artillery Short Sword is aesthetically pleasing and is an excellent example of a desirable Confederate blade. JLD
Paperwork
Rebel Relics Previous Description