July 12-14, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/12/2022
Clean example of a Civil War Model 1850 Foot Officer's sword complete with its matching leather scabbard. Crafted from high quality steel, the blade is in standard M1850 configuration and is adorned with beautiful etched decorations which feature elegant foliate and floral scrollwork as well as patriotic designs such as panoplies of arms. The obverse features a banner which reads "E PLURIBUS UNUM" followed by a spread winged federal eagle, flanked on both sides by the designs. The reverse features the etched letters "U.S.", also flanked on both sides by similar decorations. The maker’s inscription is located on the obverse ricasso and reads “W.H. / HORSTMANN / & SONS / PHILADELPHIA” in acid etched script. The reverse features a geometric display beneath a palmette, in place of the maker mark, and the Gebruder Weyersberg king's head marking on the ricasso. Spine is marked "IRON PROOF". The single-band brass hilt features a solid guard that is detailed with cutout oak leaf scrolls and acanthus leaves. The grip features a grooved, center-swelled wooden handle wrapped in high quality sharkskin. The skin is tightly bound to the grip with brass wire that fits neatly in the grooves of the handle. The brass pommel is decorated with scrollwork of laurel leaves and features a tiered cap. The original leather scabbard is complete with original brass furniture which is unadorned. CONDITION: The blade exhibits a pleasing gray patina with slightly muted decorations. There are scattered areas of spotting and pitting towards the tip. The brass hilt exhibits a pleasing patina with scattered areas of oxidation between the designs. Grip has whitened with age and the brass wire remains tight. Scabbard remains firm with tight seam with typical areas of creasing and scuffs. The drag appears to have been reglued to the scabbard. One small dent in drag. Middle mount produces a slight wobble. Overall very good. Very nice example of a signature Civil War sword. PROVENANCE: Roger Bender Collection. JLD