Identified Civil War Officer’s Sword of Lt. James S. Grubbs, 31st & 156th Indiana Infantry / SOLD

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SKU: SWO 327 Category:

Description

Identified Civil War Officer’s Sword of Lt. James S. Grubbs, 31st & 156th Indiana Infantry

 

Fine identified example of a Civil War Non-Regulation Model 1850 Staff & Field Officer’s Sword, imported and marked by W. Walscheid, Solingen, one of the premier German cutlers supplying blades to American officers during the war.

 

The beautifully etched blade features patriotic motifs including an American eagle with “E Pluribus Unum” banner, scrolling foliage, and classical geometric borders. The blade retains much of its original brightness with light frosting in the etched panels. The steel guard displays the openwork eagle design associated with higher-grade officer’s swords, paired with a sharkskin-wrapped grip and twisted brass wire.

 

The steel scabbard bears the elegantly engraved inscription:

“Lt. J. S. Grubbs.” In jewelers wigglework script.

 

The sword was carried by James S. Grubbs of Terre Haute, Indiana, who served with distinction in two regiments during the Civil War:

  • 31st Indiana Infantry – Enlisted September 20, 1861 as Commissary Sergeant; promoted to 2nd Lieutenant, Company K, January 1, 1863.
  • 156th Indiana Infantry – Commissioned 1st Lieutenant, Company E, May 19, 1865; mustered out August 4, 1865 at Winchester, VA.

 

Grubbs’ service spanned nearly the entire conflict, in both administrative and field leadership roles within the regiments.

 

The sword remains complete with its original steel scabbard, showing age patina and one period-dented area, consistent with honest field wear also known as a “rattle dent” tokeep the blade from chatteringagainst the inside of the scabbard. All metal surfaces have developed a pleasing gray tone, highlighting the crisp maker’s stamp and inscription.

 

A striking, inscribed Civil War officer’s sword—combining fine Solingen craftsmanship with excellent documented provenance to a twice-serving Indiana officer.

 

Inventory Number: SWO 327

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