This Civil War sword is a very fine example of an original, non-regulation Model 1850 Staff and Field Officer’s sword manufactured by the Newark, New Jersey firm of Henry Sauerbier. The high quality, highly embellished sword is complete with its classic browned metal scabbard adorned with brass mountings.  The handsome, slightly curved steel blade measures 31” long and has a width of 1 1/8” with a 24” long unstopped fuller and 20” narrow fuller. Both flats of the bright blade exhibit the Sauerbier style of both military and leafy floral motifs with fancy acid etching in like-new condition. All etchings are near mint with high detail. As with many of Sauerbier’s pieces, this blade is not etched with his name.  But Sauerbier’s sword characteristics are evident in the large unstopped fuller, unique bulbous serifs or fishtail serifs on the letters "US", the X-pattern etched on the reverse ricasso, the turned-down pommel and the ornate French embellished face guard. Slightly rounded blade back exhibits no stampings.  Blade is fine with only very slight spots of oxidation. Has one tiny edge nick at mid blade. 

The large, ornate French-styled, cast brass hilt is typical on the sword and displays a cutout backstrap integrated into the knucklebow. Hilt is just slightly loose on the tang.  Has its leather washer.  Brass pommel detail is decorated with a very fine, carved Mother-of-Pearl shield device inset just below the ornate pommel brim. Pommel exhibits a flat, almost oval brass disc that covers the tang mound.  All brass has acquired a dark bronze patina overall.  Grips are in wonderful condition and feature original black or dark brown leather covered wooden handle secured with fine double-twisted copper wire flanked on each side by a single thread of dark wire, all tightly wound around the handle. Grips excellent with no cracking or loss. 

The original, all metal scabbard is in excellent condition and features a handsome browned lacquer finish overall. Scabbard furniture boasts two brass plain bands, brass mounts and suspension rings and its brass drag.    Bands are tight and mounts are complete with a 1” diameter brass ring on each. All small screws present on drag, mounts and the throat. Scabbard drag shows normal edgewear. This beautiful, high quality, M1850 Field & Staff officer’s sword is a fine, specimen that would compliment any Civil War display or collection.