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CONFEDERATE DOUGLAS, COLUMBIA S.C. CAVALRY OFFICERS SABER.

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:8,000.00 USD Estimated At:16,000.00 - 18,000.00 USD
CONFEDERATE DOUGLAS, COLUMBIA S.C. CAVALRY OFFICERS SABER.
Douglas Cavalry Officer Sabers are among the rarest of all Confederate made swords, and this example is probably the finest example known. This example is 100% orig, authentic and complete in every regard. Douglas is a rare maker with few known marked examples. This example we can identify as Douglas through its distinct massive 34" blade with distinctive protective washer composed of a layer of red cloth and saw tooth edge washer. Other distinctive Douglas features are the rondels that decorate the terminus of the knuckle bow into the pommel and at either end of scabbard drag. The gold-plated hilt is decorated with a scalloped floral design at quillon and florally decorated branches. PROVENANCE: Steven Hess Collection. CONDITION: 34" unfullered blade is over 1 1/4" wide and 5/16" thick at the ricasso and is gray bright overall with scattered areas of staining and pitting. Leather grip is complete, retaining much of its orig polish and shine, though scuffed, chipped and cracking at high areas. Orig thin twisted brass wire wrapped is tight and complete. Hilt retains strong traces of gold gilt in protected areas, especially on bottom of hilt. Brass overall, where gold is lacking, has good yellow patina. Orig and correct Douglas scabbard has brass throat, ring mounts and rings with correct distinctive Douglas soldered iron drag. Top brass sword ring is smaller then the other and is possibly a replacement as it is not soldered closed as is its mate below. Scabbard body overall is sound and solid and smooth with much of it's orig black paint remaining. Orig tool marks are still visible on scabbard body and mounts. Orig 3 layer protective washer is mostly complete and intact with some wear and chipping to surface and edges as can be seen in photos. 8-76361 JS3