This is a beautifully designed sword! This is one of the scarce Civil War production model 1860 staff officer's sword. This is the actual sword that is illustrated and described on pages 447 and 448 of the US Army Sword by by John Thillmann. It was produced by the Newark, New Jersey firm of Henry Sauerbier. It is etched with his maker's mark at the base of the full-length 29 inch blade. This marking along with the gorgeous design are what makes this sword so special. Sauerbier wasn't in business after the Civil War so we know it isn't made after the Civil War like almost all of the model 1860 staff officer swords you encounter. The front side of the blade has the original floral and patriotic etching still visible. Ont he back side of the blade it has the maker's marking as well as the large "US" lettering. It also has the old English style "Staff" wording clearly visible. The handle of this sword stands out from all of the other ones in the book. The pommel cap of the sword is designed like an officer's head and he is wearing the Chassuer style hat on his head. It has the pompom on top that holds the handle together and it is made of brass. The front of the hat has the hunting horn design which denotes the infantry branch of service. The grip is made of cast pewter and it has the image of Lady Liberty cast into the grip. We know that this is the exact sword from the book because of how the handle bow portion is separated from the pommel cap just as it is in the book. The back of the hand guard has the folding clam shell design with the button to hold it up present but is no longer springs out. The sword is accompanied by the original scabbard that ha the top mount that utilizes the double ring suspension system. It has the original brass throat and drag intact. The drag has the classic Sauerbier style engraving. This is a great sword and it is the exact sword that is illustrated int he book.

Print Email to a friend