This is a Militia Non Commissioned Officer's sword circa 1850 -1870. The sword measures 34" overall, with a 28" blade. The unmarked blade measures 11/16" wide at the hilt and tapers to a spear point. There are no makers marks or any other markings or etchings on the blade. The blade itself has a silver/grayish patina with black age freckling over the entire length. The edges are free from nicks or dings. The cross guard and pommel cap are both made of iron and had gold wash applied. The cross guard depicts an eagle with spread wings atop a military shield, clutching laurel branches in each talon. The reverse side of the cross guard has a military shield in the center of an intricate emblem. Furled plumes flank each side of the emblem and curl inwards, serving as the outer edges of the guard. The pommel cap features an eagle facing to the right with wings spread and a military shield between the wings. An intricate floral design surrounds the eagle. A small band at the bottom of the pommel is decorated with with small shields. The pommel is loose on the tang. The grip is creased white bone. The scabbard is iron covered in black leather. There are a few areas near the bottom of the scabbard where the leather has flaked off. The upper mount and drag are both iron and have also had gold wash applied. The mount has an eagle with a military shield on it's breast. The eagle is surrounded by very intricate scroll and floral work. There is a stud near the bottom of the mount to be used with a frog. The drag shows some honest wear. An example of this style of NCO sword can be found in Richard Bezdek's book "American Swords and Sword Makers". This is an nice little sword that stil has some eye pleasing display power at a reasonable price.

Item # AA980

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