This is the second of two etched blade US Model 1840 musician’s swords by Horstmann that we recently got in. This has a clear “W.H.H.” etched on the blade in a curving ribbon on the obverse and “Philadelphia” in script on the reverse, a few inches above the guard. The obverse also appears to have a partial king’s head blade maker’s stamp on the ricasso, just under the guard, which would indicate Horstmann got it from the Gebruder Weyersberg, a prime German supplier.

Horstmann was largely cut out of government contracts by Emerson and Silver, of New Jersey, who let it be known not only that Horstmann did not make his own swords, but that they could supply them directly for less money. Nevertheless, Horstmann was still able to sell on the commercial market to states, militia companies, and individuals, and this one offered the extra touch of having an etched blade.

The hilt has a medium patina to the brass, some brightness, but not polished. The blade is a mix of gray with dark gray spots. The edge and point are good. The etched motifs are flowering vines and floral scrolls. It might benefit from careful cleaning. We have left it as is. Horstmann’s use of German supplier for the pattern is appropriate. The 1840 musician and NCO have German elements in the design and the first examples obtained by the government were made by Schnitzler and Kirschbaum.   [sr]

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