A model 1850 Staff and Field Officer sword from Horster of Solingen, Germany. This is a particularly fine and high quality example, showing the higher end of private purchase sabers. The hilt, pommel, and basket are full brass, with a punched US in the basket, and a shagreen grip that is 90%+ intact. Patination appropriate to age. The blade has some black toning but is free of more harmful oxidation, and is elaborately etched with stands of arms, floral filigree, and the words ‘US’ and ‘E Pluribus Unum.’ The ricasso is stamped ‘Eisenhauer Horster Solingen.’ The Horster is slightly rubbed out, but viewable under magnification. ‘Eisenhauer’ likely refers to a practice of testing these blades against iron nails, similar to the reason that ‘Iron Proof’ is etched on its spine. The scabbard is browned steel, an innovation designed for wearing on horseback, with etched brass fittings. Two mounting rings on scabbard. 32-inch blade. | This lot has a reserve.
