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VERY RARE LEECH & RIGDON CAVALRY OFFICERS SABER.

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:22,500.00 USD Estimated At:45,000.00 - 65,000.00 USD
VERY RARE LEECH & RIGDON CAVALRY OFFICERS SABER.
Please Note (3/1/13): We have received information that the sword was a war trophy brought home by a Capt. William H. Mickle of the 134th NY Volunteer Infantry, probably captured after the fall of Atlanta. This is among the rarest and most desirable patterns of Confederate Cavalry Officers sabers known. This example is the best that has ever come to market and probably the finest example known. There are less then 10 examples known, most in museum collections and only 3 or 4 in private hands. This sword orig sold at Cowan Auctions for over 80,000 (May 4, 2002) and is later found in the Gary Hendershot Catalog priced at 95,000. This example is in beautiful condition, retaining one of the finest etched blades found on any Confederate Officer's sword. This sword also shows an unusual feature of having the blade tang where it is peened over on top of pommel cap, engraved and chased, which is a very rare feature; possibly associated with Jacob Faser, who decorated swords for Leech & Rigdon and earlier for James Conning in Mobile ALA. This feature is seen on very few swords one famous example being the Conning Staff sword carried by Confederate General Leonidis Polk. This pattern really has the look and flair to be carried by the most important officers. The decorated hilt terminates at the quillion with a 1" inch oval with a large "CS". PROVENANCE: Steven Hess Collection. CONDITION: 32 1/2" slightly curved blade is more reminiscent of a Staff Officers blade. However, it's quite massive measuring 3/8" thick at ricasso and almost 1 1/4" wide. 18" etched panels are crisp and distinct with scattered areas of staining, pitting and rust. Etched panels include a large 2" Old English "CS", floral motifs and panoplies of arms. The hilt retains traces of gold in protected areas. The leather grip is intact with most of its orig black polish with areas of scuffing and wear at high areas. The twisted brass wire wrap is complete and intact. Protective washer is missing causing hilt to be slightly loose. Scabbard is sound and solid and cleaned overall. Screw is missing from drag. Top saber ring is bent and worn and bottom saber ring is of a smaller diameter, unsoldered and probably replaced. 8-76364 JS4