US Confederate Cavalry Officer's Sabre / Sword, Sold

In very good condition, a quality Prussian made US Confederate Cavalry Officer's Sabre / Sword.

This sword never made it into Confederate hands; the blade is unsharpened. Many swords were made mostly in Prussia but also in England for the Confederate army but were prevented from getting there by the Union Blockade. These swords are normally French style cavalry sabres but this is a rare officer's sabre. This lion's head three bar with langets style was preferred by many officers, one being the presentation sword for General Albert Pike. Pike's British made sword had the maker's name on it because he had resigned his commission from the Confederacy, so there were no loyalty or blockade breaking issues. This Prussian made sword (we know it is Prussian made because of the herringbone blade spine, the typically Prussian grip and the etching type) has no maker's mark (like most others) because those making swords for the South ran the risk of embargo by the Union if found out. So, this fine sword never made it to the Confederate officer it was intended for, which is why we were able to acquire it and why it is in such good condition.

The quality etched 34 1/2 inch blade is in very good condition, some patina and scuffing but not much, and firm in the hilt. The hilt retains much gilt (on brass) and is in good shape. The ebonized wood grip has a couple of small surface grazes / losses but is overall very good, as are the twisted grip wire bindings. The browned / blackened steel scabbard with brass suspension rings has lost some of its colour but remains good. The sword sheathes and draws well, and the sword feels very, very good (well balanced, etc.) in the hand.

This is such a lovely quality sabre in good condition, it is more than worth our price of £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference number AE82 (1017). Further / full sized pictures available upon request.