Cavalry Variation of the Model 1850 Foot Officer’s Sword
Cavalry Variation of the Model 1850 Foot Officer’s Sword - Inventory Number: SWO 308
A rare and desirable cavalry-adapted version of the Model 1850 Foot Officer’s Sword, featuring a distinctly curved blade and mounted in a brass-fitted blued steel scabbard—a private purchase variant likely intended for mounted officers seeking both elegance and practicality in the field.
Manufactured by the respected firm of E.H. Horstman of Philadelphia, this sword exhibits the high-quality craftsmanship associated with privately purchased officer’s arms. The curved, single-edged blade is finely etched with patriotic motifs, including “U.S.,” scrollwork, and floral designs, all of which remain crisp and deeply struck.
The gilt brass hilt features the classic half-basket guard with openwork floral embellishments, and the grip is wrapped in ray skin with original twisted brass wire still tightly intact. The sword is housed in its original blued steel scabbard, accented with brass mounts—including throat, middle suspension band, and drag—all showing a pleasing, untouched patina. The scabbard body retains much of its original deep blue finish, with only minor handling wear.
This non-regulation configuration, with its cavalry-style curvature and premium fittings, reflects the taste and needs of mounted Union officers who desired a sword both functional for the saddle and refined in appearance.
A fine and increasingly scarce example of a privately purchased Civil War officer’s saber, bearing the mark of a premier Northern maker.
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