This is a Model 1850 Foot Officer's Sword from the Civil War era. There is no makers mark on the ricasso. We've had a couple of other cut down sabers that had been turned into side knives with Confederate history. This cut down saber is another piece from the large collection out of Illinois, but no history came with it. The blade measures 11 3/4" long, 1 1/16" wide and has a spine 1/4" wide at the hilt. The overall length of the cut down saber is 16 1/2". This blade originally had a bright polished finish but has began to turn a dull gray finish with dark freckling over the entire length of the blade. The blade is free of damage, no nicks anywhere on this one. It still retains a period sharpened edge.The once single edge blade has been shaped into a spear point. There is a false edge that begins 4 1/2" from the hilt. There are no etchings or markings on the blade anywhere. Instead of a leather washer this blade has one made of red felt material. The blade is tight to the hilt. The brass hilt is in good condition, displaying a beautiful golden patina. It also has the decorative floral design on the quillion, guard and pommel. The wooden grip is covered in marine skin and is in good condition. The double strand twisted wire is all but gone, having only two wraps still remaining at the pommel cap. The knuckle bow has been provisioned for a sword knot. What started life as a straight blade Foot Officers sword is now a very cool little fighting knife. No documentation to prove it, but all know how the Rebs turned another mans junk into Confederate treasure! This is a great example of an import Infantry Officer's sword turned side knife from the Civil War period.

Item # AA864

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