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Pre-WWII U.S. Model 1852 Naval Officer's Sword

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:600.00 USD Estimated At:1,200.00 - 1,800.00 USD
Pre-WWII U.S. Model 1852 Naval Officer's Sword
Auction Location:

16600 Aston Street
Irvine, CA
Pre-WWII U.S. Model 1852 Naval Officer's sword, belonging to Lt. Comm. William Walter Graham, Jr., executive officer on the USS Jarvis (DD-393) launched May 6, 1937, and sunk by Japanese bombers and torpedoes off Guadalcanal on August 9, 1942, with all hands on board. Present at the attack on Pearl Harbor and moored next to the Mugford (DD-389) in berth B6 at the naval yard for minor repairs. The Jarvis opened fired with 5'' guns and machine guns and made preparation to get underway. Her 5'' guns were the first to challenge the enemy raiders, and her gunners claimed four Japanese aircraft. She later steamed with Task Force 14 to relieve the defenders on Wake Island, with various postings prior to her sinking during the Guadalcanal campaign. None of her 233 member crew survived the onslaught. W.W. Graham was killed at the age of 39, and although buried at sea, he is memorialized at the Manila American Cemetery, Manila, Philippines. Standard officer's sword is 35'' in length with skateskin hilt, wire wrap, and 30'' silver-plated etched blade marked ''W.W. Graham'' to right side. Throat of scabbard features Graham's initials in monogram form. Condition is near excellent with very light discoloration near the last 6'' of the blade, minor patination to brass throat and rings of scabbard, and minor flaking to leather finish. Additionally included are a copy of Comm. Graham's Academy Yearbook photo, photos and certificates dealing with the USS Jarvis, and a slightly more modern naval sword carrier and belt. Est.: $1,200-$1,800.