November 7-8, 2018 Edged Weapons, Armor, & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/8/2018
Slightly curved steel blade with two partial fullers on each side and both sides with long etched panels. The right side displays a stand of pole arms and a USN flag, a vacant presentation plaque with a border of stars, a fouled anchor with a shield and near the ricasso marked "W.H./ HORSTMANN/ & SONS/ PHILADELPHIA". The spine is decorated with repeating foliate designs etched on in as well as "IRON PROOF". Left side is decorated with oak leaves around a rope, a "USN" banner, a fouled anchor and an eagle posed on a cannon. The left side of the ricasso is stamped with a King's head proof. Gilt brass hilt with pierced guard chased with oak leaves, acorns and "USN" banner. The quillon features a detailed dolphin's head and the knucklebow terminates en suite. The top of the pommel is decorated with stars surrounding an eagle standing on a coil of rope. This sword is complete with its original black leather covered scabbard with gilt brass mounts, featuring a serpent on the drag and relief knotted rope ring retainers. CONDITION: Very good. Blade retains some original polish with an otherwise freckled grey patina. Etched panels are sharp, showing little wear with only a few small dark areas. Hilt retains perhaps 60-70% original gilt finish. Shark skin grip with some minor wear. Scabbard is very good with some losses to surface that have been touched up and some crazing. Mounts retains approximately 70-80% gilt finish with some thinning. This is a very nice, early production Model 1852 Naval officer's sword.