Original Item: One Of A Kind: Beautiful Presentation Grade Model 1860 Staff and Field Officer’s Sword by the firm of William H. Wilson of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Dating the Model 1860 Staff and Field Officer’s Sword is difficult as they were made from 1860-1900. Generally, the best way to date the sword is either by maker or the blade used on the sword itself. Elliptical  double-edged blades are the earliest, which is what our example has.

The blade is handsomely hand engraved, with a federal eagle on the left side of the blade. Military and floral engraved motifs are present on both sides of the blade. On the right side of the blade is an etched  presentation “To Capt. J. J. Duffy by Co. C., F.M.B.” we have not conducted any research on Captain Duffy, but one could possibly find more on him if one wished to do so.

The Sword hilt and handle is brass, with the handle having a separate brass wrap to mimic the wire used on the leather handled versions. Scabbard is nickeled with filigreed brass furniture.  Of note, there is a engraved brass medallion that appears to be a later addition which has been brazed onto the scabbard. The medallion features a Christian Cross surrounded by a sunburst. A scroll at the top reads “C.T. “A” U. of A”  We believe this to be one of the many numerous Fraternal organizations which were quite popular and numerous during the later portion of the 19th Century. It is our belief that this sword was used during Duffy’s military service and then repurposed as his dress sword for the lodge or fraternal organization he belonged to in later years.

The sword comes complete with its original gold bullion sword knot, which is also in very good condition.

This is a very handsome sword which is a must have for the collector of 19th Century U.S. Militaria.