POST CIVIL WAR - M1872 OFFICER SWORD INSCRIBED TO OFFICER C.G.LAKE ON BLADE FROM MOST IMPORTANT AMERICAN COLLECTION IN THE WORLD PHILIP MEDICUS.

Regulation 1872 pattern saber for mounted officers of artillery. The number of mounted artillery officers was greatly reduced in the postwar army, most artillerymen being assigned to coastal and garrison duty. Regulation pattern with gilt brass hilt, wire wrapped sharkskin grip, etc. Blade pad in place. Geometric scrolls etched on both sides. Obverse with "Bent & Bush Boston Mass." etched on false ricasso. Eagle with motto ribbon underneath and US shield above. Obverse with a trophy of arms above and "C.G. Lake" in central panel. Hilt is British style with stepped pommel and checkered thumb rest. Scabbard bright with deeply cast drag with sun and rays, and ring mounts with floral designs. Lake does not show up among US officers in Heitman and likely a state officer. Sword comes with attached tag signed by Flayderman and dated 1956 with description giving Medicus provenance. CONDITION: Near mint. Excellent wrap and wire, lots of gilt, bright blade with vivid etching. Just scattered very tiny speckling to the plated finish of the scabbard body.

Acquired awhile ago via auction