Measuring 37 3/4 inches in overall length, with a 32 inch straight double fuller blade, bearing the Weyersberg logo on the left ricasso and triple-panel wraparound etching, 14 1/4 inches long on each side. The spine is decorated with a fine laurel vine, with both sides enhanced with a plum brown fill-in and bearing fine geometric and martial designs. On the left panel are the words "Wir Deutschen furchten Gott aber sonst nichts in der Welt" ("We Germans fear God and nothing else in the world and it is the fear of God which lets us love and foster peace], Otto von Bismarck, 1888), and the unit inscription "Inf.Rgt. Herzog Fried.Wilh. V.Braunschweig Nr.78" on the right. Infantry Regiment 78 was established in 1866, participated in the Franco-Prussian War, received the honor title for the Duke von Braunschweig ("The Black Duke", hero of the Napoleonic Wars) in 1889, and saw combat on the Western Front before being disbanded at the close of WW I. Nearly the full surface of the brass guard and pommel are covered in finely sculpted three dimensional oak leaf and acorn engraving, with the Imperial Eagle fully rendered on both sides of the pierced-through guard, a brown leather finger loop, wire wrapped rayskin grip, Wire accented leather portapee with silver wire acorn, and a flat-topped Phrygian helmet pommel. The scabbard is constructed from black enameled steel, with a symmetrical drag, a pair of brass suspension bands and a brass throat, as well as a leather and cloth sword belt. Both the sheath and belt were altered, likely during the period of use, with the rear suspension ring cleanly removed and a single silver ribbon-faced hanging strap and a short suspension hook on the belt.

Fine, with some light handling marks overall. The etching and finish on the excellent blade is very strong. The portapee shows wear and tear appropriate to age and the sheath shows the traditional dings and scratches. A highly attractive infantry officer's sword. Scabbard is repainted.