1850 Foot Officer’s Sword -A Choice Horstmann Import

1850 Foot Officer’s Sword -A Choice Horstmann Import. Likely an unissued sword, as the condition is super. The gilt overall is just short of mint, with minor scratches or wear (on rings mostly).  The sharkskin grips are fine with triple strand wire wrapping.

The blade is just shy of 31 inches, and retains most of the original frosty etching, and bright polish. The left side of the blade marked on the riccaso “W. H. Horstmann & Sons Philadelphia” and “IRON PROOF” on the rib near the hilt. “U.S. and panoply of arms etched on left, with florals, and Federal Eagle and “E. PLURIBUS UNUM” in band amongst more floral etching.  A few small areas of blemishing here and there with more toward the tip.  Missing the leather washer.

The scabbard is covered with about the best conditioned sharkskin (shagreen) you’ll find on a sword.

If this was an Ames sword, the price would be much higher.

Excellent plus.