November 7-8, 2018 Edged Weapons, Armor, & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/8/2018
This sword is accompanied by a notarized letter from James Tuck in Eutaw, Alabama which states this Civil War sword was handed down in his family for generations. He is a direct descendant of Captain J.F. Smith who served as an officer in Company K of the Eutaw Volunteers, as well as the 20th Alabama Infantry. Smith carried this sword throughout the Civil War. The initials inscribed on the throat mount "J.F.S." are the initials of his ancestor J.F. Smith. The letter is dated January 11, 2011. Conning manufactured various styles of swords in Mobile, Alabama throughout the Civil War for the South. This example features a slightly curved, unmarked steel blade with single partial fuller on each side. The cast brass hilt features a guard with classic "CS" motif, incorporated in foliate scrolls. The wooden grip is covered with brown leather and decorated with twisted brass wire. Sword is complete with its original black leather scabbard with brass mounts. The throat mount is inscribed "MADE BY/ James Conning/ Mobile/ Ala." At the bottom of throat mount are the initials "J.F.S." in script. CONDITION: Very good. Blade retains much of original polish with some grey areas and minor freckling. Hilt retains a mostly dark patina with generous traces of gilt finish in protected areas. Grip excellent with some crazing to surface. Scabbard very good with some minor losses to surface and cracking. Mounts retain a dark patina and inscription is clear. This Confederate officer's sword is in far better than average condition.