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PRESENTATION US MODEL 1860 CIVIL WAR STAFF AND FIELD OFFICER’S SWORD IDENTIFIED TO GEN. NELSON MILES; PRESENTED TO COL. HENRY H. ADAMS
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$35,000.00
Quantity Available: 1
Item Code: 1252-04
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Call 717-334-0347,
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Few American swords in existence have borne witness to more of the tragedy and triumph of American military history over a 40 year period, than this example. Nelson Appleton Miles was commissioned as a lieutenant in the 22d Massachusetts Infantry on September 9, 1861, doubtless when he acquired this sword. He was commissioned colonel of the 61st New York on September 30, 1862, having seen fierce action on the peninsula and at Antietam. Brevetted brigadier general for his gallantry at Chancellorsville, and major general on 25 August 1864 for his service at The Wilderness, Spotsylvania and Ream's Station. Miles was wounded four times during the Civil War and awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions at Chancellorsville, all with this sword by his side. On 28 July 1866 Miles was appointed colonel of the 40th US Infantry in the regular army, transferring to the 5th infantry in 1869. He subdued the Cheyenne, Kiowa and Comanches on the plains and led the campaign against Sitting Bull and the Sioux after the Custer massacre in 1876. Miles is further credited with the subjugation of Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce and the capture of Geronimo, all with this sword by his side. He was named commanding general of the United States Army in 1895, ably leading American forces to victory in the Spanish American War, finally retiring in 1903.
The sword is a classic M1860 Civil War period staff and field, the diamond shaped blade etched for half its length with leaves, arms panoplies and a spread wing eagle and block US. Blade excellent, clean and gray with just some minor staining, totally untouched. The exterior of the sword, while clearly showing use, is also completely untouched with dark smooth patina overall, including the folding counter guard which bears the inscription. The release/locking button is missing. The entire sword exhibits absolutely no dents, rust or pitting. Col. Henry Herschel Adams was nominated for the Medal of Honor for his conspicuous gallantry at Chickamauga by General O. O. Howard. He returned to civilian life after the war a via a successful business career became one of the richest men in American by the end of the 19th century. Adams was the commander of Miles' GAR post and, at his own expense, raised a brigade of infantry for service under Miles in the Spanish American War. Clearly Adams was the perfect candidate to become the caretaker of this most important memento of Miles' incredible military career.
The sword is accompanied by an extensive file of records, newspaper accounts etc. for both Miles and Adams.
A remarkable American historic sword, having seen some of the most ferocious fighting of the Civil War, the blood and tragedy of the Indian Wars and the consummate triumph of the forces under Miles' command in the Spanish American War. Truly a rare opportunity. [ph:L]
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