Lot 169: Pre-Civil War Militia Staff Officer's Sword with Scabbard

This militia staff officer's sword with eagle pommel and silver finished brass scabbard was manufactured circa1840. The sword has a straight 30 1/2 inch blade with central fuller. The blade is acid-etched and dry needle engraved with a Federal Eagle with "E. Pluribus/Unum" on a ribbon along with floral and martial designs. The silver-plated brass hilt has a cast eagle and shield pommel, a chain guard extending from the pommel to the guard finial and shell-shaped languets. The grip has simple carved designs. The scabbard has two suspension bands with rings and a frog stud and is engraved with a federal eagle and shield and floral designs. The blade has no visible maker's marks or proof marks.

Good. The blade has a mix of brighter and muted areas with clear etched designs. The hilt has moderate wear compared to the blade with an aged patina and about 30% of the silver plating. The grip is very good with a slight chip and light aging. The scabbard is very good with about 60% of the thinning plating, a couple minor dents, and an overall aged patina.