8

U.S. Model 1850 Engineer's Sword

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,200.00 USD Estimated At:2,000.00 - 4,000.00 USD
U.S. Model 1850 Engineer's Sword
Auction Location:

16600 Aston Street
Irvine, CA
U.S. Model 1850 Engineer's Sword, with rare gold bullion portapee type sword knot, ricasso etched ''W.H. Horstmann & Sons, Philadelphia'' in circular logo.. Blade is 33'', 39'' overall, brass handguard and backstrap, wire wrapped skate grip, with Engineer's star motif on quillion. Backstrap of sword handle is partially checkered. Horstmann, a noted military supplier at the time, mfg'd almost nothing in their catalog. All was either subcontracted out or foreign imported. Blade is etched with American patriotic symbols but with Germanic type oakleaves and acorns surrounding. Right side of blade is additionally marked ''FTPCC'' in circular wreath (First Troop Phila. City Cavalry), founded in 1774 and still active today. During the War with Mexico 1845-1846, they served with Capt. Butler, and several individual members of the troop served with distinction. During the Civil War, they joined the 2nd U.S. Cavalry at Carlisle and engaged Stonewall Jackson and J.E.B. Stuar!
t. The Troop served in many battles, including Gettysberg, where they were accepted into the battle without being sworn in. Residents of Gettsberg were extremely generous to the troops then and throughout the campaign.) Nickel-plated brass scabbard shows brass-applied U.S. shield with initials ''TE'' in upper field (for Topigraphical Engineers). Condition is excellent. Blade is bright. Grip shows light tarnishing. Skate skin with minor handling. Lightly gilded brass guard shows some tarnishing. Bullion knot with some darkening from age and storage. Est.: $2,000-$4,000.