3115 US MARINE CORPS NCO SWORD OF THE ANTEBELLUM ERA.

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This item SOLD at 2023 May 14 @ 11:53UTC-4 : AST/EDT
Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 500.00 USD
Estimated at 1,000.00 - 1,400.00 USD

A very interesting sword first produced by Widman and then by Horstmann after Widman’s death in 1848. Extensive research has been done into this style of sword and it has been determined that starting as early as 1820's Marine NCO’s carried this style eagle head sword. This style sword remained in favor until just prior to the Civil War. This sword was also a popular sword with Militia Officers and NCO’s with many being sold by both Widman and Horstmann to non-Marine Militia soldiers. This sword measures 37 1/4" with a 31 5/8” blade. The single wide fullered blade is blued over about half its length. Gold highlighted etching includes patriotic, military & foliate motifs. There is also a ribbon on the blade bearing the words “W.H. Horstmann & Sons Philadelphia”. Brass hilt with slight reverse P knuckle bow and small languets on the cross guard. The underside of the cross guard is stamped “HORSTMANN” near the joint with the knuckle bow. Stylized eagle head pommel with knuckle bow entering the mouth of the eagle. Plain backstrap with wire wrapped leather grip. No scabbard. CONDITION: blade has a dark patina and areas of significant pitting. Less than half of the bluing remains in the blade along with areas of gilding in the etching. Hilt is a bit loose but undamaged. Grip shows light to moderate wear. (02-19475/BF). $1,000-1,400.