High Grade Civil War Officer’s Presentation Cavalry Saber With Fine Clauberg Blade

A High Grade Civil War Officer’s Presentation Cavalry Saber With Fine Clauberg Blade And Post-War Presentation Inscription To Lieutenant Jerome Smith October 11, 1871.

31 and 3/4 inch saber blade, etched and gilt for half its length with long broad fuller. The etching of unusually fine quality and depth. The right side with trophies of arms and unusual raised inscription “ONWARD TO VICTORY”. The left with magnificently rendered American eagle over a gilt ribbon “E. Pluribus Unum”, this framed within elaborate “U. S.” amid strap work and towards the point “UNION” in an etched gilt reserve.

The pierced and gilt guard (gilding worn), with floral design and brass grip with floral ribs. Engraved silver scabbard with floral design chape and locket. An engraved helmeted warrior holding a halberd aloft adorns the scabbard above the chape. The presentation inscription reads: “Presented BY THE OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF ALBANY JACKSON CORPS TO LIEUT. (sic) JEROME SMITH OCT. 11th 1871”.

The mounts with generous traces of original gilding. The scabbard with six dents. The engraving of the warrior very crisp. The blade with some shallow edge nicks but generally crisp etching. The gilding is worn however highlights the quality of the etching.

39 and 1/2 inches overall. This is a most attractive high grade presentation saber and would be well worth further research.