US M1850 Foot Officer’s Sword

Description

Patterned after the French Model 1845 Infantry Officer’s Sword, the US M1850 Foot
Officer’s Sword was the standard infantry officer’s sword of the Civil War, and was intended
for field grade officer’s up to the rank of captain. The M1850 Staff and Field Officer’s Sword
was nearly identical, with the exception of having a “US” worked into the guard, and this
was designated for ranks of major and above. However, since officer’s swords were private
purchase and the regulations were not enforced, it is not unusual to find either model sword
used by officer’s of a different rank than designated. Both models usually featured an
etched blade with patriotic motif, but this example is completely unmarked, with a plain
slightly curved single-edged 30″ (76.2 cm) blade with broad stopped 3/4-length fuller.
Regulation cast brass hilt, featuring pierced foliage in the guard, reverse scroll quillon, and
knuckle bow connected to the slightly angled Phrygian helmet style pommel. Leather-
covered wood grip with single strand brass wire wrap. The scabbard is a modern
replacement in leather with brass-colored mounts and two carry rings. Very good condition;
the blade with light rust marking and several shallow edge nicks; grip wire slightly loose,
scabbard as new. Overall length 35 3/4″ (90.8 cm).