The drawn sword measures a total length of 37.75 inches from tip to pommel. The steel blade is 31.25 inches long with a 16.50 inch narrow fuller and a 24.50 inch long stopped fuller. The blade surface is bright with very minor light scattered mottling and is otherwise in very clean condition. The true edge has several nicks. The blade back is flat and decorated with a long laurel branch. Both of the ricasso are blank. The blade surface is embellished via the acid etching process. The etching on the obverse side begins above the ricasso with “W. H. HORSTMANN & SONS PHILADELPHIA” etched in three lines. Above this is a panoply of flags followed by intertwined branches of laurel followed by two sections of floral scroll work with another panoply of flags with a shield and crossed cannons. The reverse of the blade has a clamshell shaped fern in the ricasso followed by geometric shapes. Next is scrollwork with a panoply of flags with crossed cannons and shield and a long spear and a sprig of laurel. This is surmounted by more scrollwork and another panoply of flags but this one has crossed cannons, a drum and two flags followed by a laurel branch. Though not “frosty” the etching is clearly visible and in good condition. A strong and complete leather washer is present at the base of the guard and looks to be a modern replacement.

The hilt has a highly detailed, two-line, cutout brass guard and knuckle bow cast in one piece. Upper line of brass on the guard features prominent letters “US” surrounded by finely case foliates. Bottom line has an intricate, foliate cutout design. The grip is covered in gray shark or ray skin and is wrapped with twisted brass wire. Guard looks to be bent slightly and does wiggle a bit. Skin grip shows light wear. Phrygian pommel cap is border-engraved with laurel and oak leaves. Domed cap is plain. All brass wears a light patina.

The undented metal scabbard retains much of its original finish. The throat is of plain brass. The two mounts are brass scalloped escutcheons with ring mounts at center. These are decorated with laurel leaves. Both suspension rings are present. The brass drag has some major indentations on both sides and shows signs of heavy wear and use. Otherwise, it is plain. [ad] [ph:L]

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