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Original U.S. Indian Wars Model 1860 Army Staff & Field Officer Sword with Etched Blade & Scabbard - Rare Whistle Crossguard Variant
Item Description
Original Item: One Of A Kind: This original M1860 Staff and Field officer’s sword is one of many produced by various manufacturers from the Civil War to the turn of the century. This example is constructed with an experimental and rare whistle built into the crossguard. The 1892 Report of the Chief of Ordnance states, on page 36, "At the suggestion of Capt. H.O.S. Heistand, Eleventh Infantry, and on the recommendation of the Major General Commanding the Army, a sword with a whistle has been made for experimental purposes and issued for trial."
This post-war M1860 sword specimen is an edged weapon that was designed mostly for ceremonial use. The straight, double-edged bright steel blade measures 29 1/4” long and features a diamond-shaped cross section. Blade is embellished on both sides with etched foliate and a military panoply of arms, with U.S. on one side. It is still partly bright, with some scattered oxidation staining in areas, particularly near the tip and the ricasso. It is also etched with the maker / retailer name:
Chas B Erickson
Pittsburgh
Like many swords sold during this era, it has an imported blade, marked MADE IN GERMANY and stamped with a "Walking Bear" marking on the ricasso. There has been much debate on the identity of the maker for these blades, which were used by many outfitters of the area. This marking is possibly attributed to Abraham Kuller of the Wald borough of Solingen, but unfortunately there is no concrete evidence to prove this link.
The Sword hilt is gilt brass, with the handle having a sharkskin wrapped wood handle with the wire wrap still present. There is a fold down guard on one side, which shows a U.S. Shield over crossed lances, rifles, and cannons. The other side of the guard shows a lovely Federal Eagle with banners and lances in the background.
The steel scabbard is in good condition, and still straight with no major dents or bends. It was originally nickel plated, however some areas are missing, leaving a lovely oxidized patina in place. It is adorned with two brass mounts and a brass drag; the brass throat is still present. Both mounts exhibit a floral display. The top mount sports two rings while the lower mount has only one. The brass drag features a bold star on one side and a set of draped flags on the other. Both sword mounts are tight, but the drag has a bit of wobble.
This is a very handsome sword which is a must have for the collector of 19th Century U.S. Militaria.
Approximate Dimensions:
Blade Length: 29 1/4"
Blade Style: Spear Tipped Rapier Style
Overall length: 35 1/2“
Guard imensions: 5" width x 5” length
Scabbard length: 31 1/4”
- This product is available for international shipping.
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