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AUTHENTIC M1840 CIVIL WAR SERGEANT’S (NCO) SWORD 1863 DATE
Presented is a regulation M1840 NCO sergeant’s, 1863 dated, sword
that was made by the strictly low volume, Civil War manufacturer, Emerson & Silver of Trenton, NJ. They
were in business only between 1860 and 1865, and after the war quickly went out-of-business. This sword has a unique
feature which makes it a one of a kind relic of the Civil War. The upper extension of the knuckle guard or quillion was purposefully
bent forward to act as a thumb rest. This was done by what was likely the original owner. The evenness of the marks and of
the metal’s patination tells us it is totally in keeping with the rest of the swords condition of excellence and
adds to its character and history.
CONDITION:
The blade has almost 100% of its original
polished finish and luster with only a few small surface imperfections near the point. The markings of the maker, on
one side of the ricasso, and the inspector, “DFM’ on the other are sharp and clear on both sides and were made
by a stamp and not individually, one at a time, as is found on fakes. The. Brass hilt is in extra fine condition retaining the
original gilt on the front face of the Butterfly guard. The inspector’s stamp “DFM” is also on the knuckle guard. The
scabbard’s tube is metal and has either a dark brown patina or a chocolate brown coating. In either case it
is original. The blade has a single long fuller.
MARKINGS:
Obverse: Emerson & Silver, Trenton, NJ
Reverse: U.S., DFM,
1863 Knuckle bow: DFM
Maker’s name on obverse, military mark, inspector and date on reverse
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So often are drawings and paintings of the period show non commissioned officers armed
with this butterfly guard Civil War sword that it is the weapon that comes to mind when one visualizes a gathering
of sergeants on the battle field or parade ground.
Thumb rest on guard. Frog on band
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Inspector’s initials on knuckle bow
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CONDITION: Considering its age and use, this example is in excellent
condition. The blade is solid in its handle. The scabbard has only a couple of dents on its lower band.
Dimensions:
Handle 5 1/2″ L x 7/8″ W x 1 1/4″ H
Blade 31 3/4″ L x 7/8″ W x 1/4″ T at widest
Scabbard 32 3/4″ x 1 1/4″ W x 1/2″ T at widest
Weight 3 Pounds