This seldom seen artifact is a handsome original Horstmann specimen of a regulation Model 1834 General Officer’s sword complete with its original, brass metal scabbard, both in excellent condition.  In 1834, the U.S. government wanted sturdy sword for its general officers and their staffs that was “intended for Officers of the Army”. This model sword fitted with a black leather scabbard was intended for use by all officers except the General staff and General Officers.  Officers of the General Staff wore the same sword with a steel scabbard while only General officers could wear a brass scabbard fitted with a frog stud as well.  And only General officers were allowed engraving on their scabbards.  This Horstmann & Sons unmarked product is their attempt at the regulation M1834 officers sword with its brass scabbard and its US Ordnance Department markings on the tang.  This very sword specimen is pictured on page 73 in the fine reference volume titled “Civil War Army Swords” by John H. Thillmann, Mowbray Publishers, 2008.

This Horstmann & Sons Model 1834 sword is fitted with an imported blade likely from Solingen, Prussia and assembled in Philadelphia. The sword meets the regulation for a General Officers’ sword with its silver grip, gilt guard pommel, knucklebow, boat shell guard and the double-edged central-fuller blade. In addition, it has its brass scabbard with a set of double rings and a frog stud is engraved on one side at the ring mounts. According to regulations, the brass scabbards were reserved for General Officers only and the General Officer’s sword with its engraved brass scabbard is extremely rare.  Sword blade measures 32” long and the straight blade wears a dusky gray with scattered spots of dark oxidation and pitting. Sword is decorated on both sides with an etched design of floral sprays but the etching is very thin from wear and use.

Grips are coiled wire-impressed silver in two sections with a gold gilt hilt. The two-piece, brass pommel cap is globular in shape and has a capstan at the base. Knucklebow is rounded on both ends but is flattened in the center and decorated with a beaded design set in a recessed panel. The twin, rounded cross quillons are slightly bent forward and decorated on each end with an eight-pointed star, both heavily worn down. Brass counterguard, a separate piece, has a boat-shaped guard hilt. Leather pad or washer is strong and not torn. Straight scabbard is of brass and is decorated on one side with a tooled intricate stippled design at the two mount areas and at the lower scabbard near the drag tip.  Upper ring mount bears a single ¾” diameter ring as does the lower ring mount. Scabbard bears a few small dents and dings from use. Brass has a pleasing, mellow patina and does not appear to have been cleaned. Scabbard throat retains its collar and its small set screw.

This Horstmann-assembled General Officer’s M1834 General Officers’ sword is a rare specimen that would make a valuable addition to any military collection or display