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RARE COMPLETE PROVENANCE SET:
This post-1890 U.S. Model 1860 Staff & Field Officer’s Swordwith a rare fixed-guard hilt variantis preserved with its original metal scabbard, original protective outer cover and two large original 8” x 10” vintage photographs of its documented owner, Randolph Gilbert “Bert” Moore (1874–1939) of Franklin, Kentucky.
The sword is personally identified to Moore and bears his nickname, “B,” hand-engraved into the brass ferrule of the hilt. Moore served as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Military Police. The accompanying portraits show Moore in uniform with his First Lieutenant insignia and Military Police crossed-flintlock insignia.
The sword is an unusual fixed-guard variant of the U.S. Model 1860 Staff & Field Officer’s pattern, retailed by W.H. Horstmann & Sons of Philadelphia with a German Gebrüder Weyersberg blade. The Moore family’s historic residence, the Randolph Gilbert Moore House in Franklin, Kentucky, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
SWORD DETAILS & CONDITION:
- Pattern:U.S. Model 1860 Staff & Field Officer’s Sword Pattern (The elegant, rigid diamond-section dress sword carried by infantry staff and field officers).
- Overall Length:Approximately 36”, 37” with scabbard.
- Retailer/Assembler:W.H. Horstmann & Sons, Philadelphia, beautifully preserved frosted acid-etched name panel on the lower blade.
- Blade Forge:Gebrüder Weyersberg (Solingen, Germany), stamped with the iconic Weyersberg shield on the reverse ricasso.
- Hilt Variant:Uncommon Fixed-Guard Variant. Cast entirely rigid from the factory rather than utilizing the fragile folding counter-guard mechanism. This variant avoids the loose or broken hinges common to this pattern, leaving the stunning federal details beautifully preserved. The brass guard displays an exquisite, highly detailed cast of the Federal Eagle. It has an original black horn grip with unbroken triple-strand twisted brass wire.
- Era/Dating:Post-1890 Import. Stamped with the crisp “Germany” country-of-origin stamp. Per the McKinley Tariff Act of 1890, all foreign imports were required to bear the country name starting in 1891. The lack of the later “Made in” phrasing pinpoints the blade’s production timeline to between 1891 and 1914.
- Blade:The diamond-section blade is perfectly straight and rigid. The acid-etched panels are crisp and deeply frosted, with “U.S.” monogram, floral scrolls, and panoplies of arms. Very light, surface oxidation and spotting are present in places but it is in very nice condition with exceptional detailing and visual appeal.
- Scabbard, Sheath & Cover:Includes the original bright nickel-plated metal scabbard with heavily chased brass mountings and suspension rings. Original protective suede/chamois storage cover/outer leather travel sheath shows wear, several holes and some loose stitching. This has shielded the metal over the decades, preventing heavy pitting or environmental degradation.
- Portraits:The 2 original 8”x10” vintage photographs are well-preserved with clear, sharp details of the officer’s uniform, First Lieutenant shoulder bars, and Military Police lapel insignia.Please note: The items in the estate appraisal report booklet and loose snapshot clippings shown are for provenance chain through the estate of Ms. Gilbertine Moore, and are not physically included in the sale. The two large portraits in the listing picture are the only photographs that come with the sword.
This heirloom is in excellent antique condition. The etched German steel blade is exceptionally bright and clean with very minimal age patina and sharp details. The brass components have a gorgeous, uncleaned golden aged patina. The grip wire is tight and completely intact. The sword has been left in its original, uncleaned condition. No polishing or abrasive cleaning has been performed.
Please keep in mind this is an antique item and not new; surface wear consistent with careful age may be present. Photos are of the actual item you will receive.Please view all photos as they are part of the description and best represent the happy to answer any questions or send additional photos upon request.
SHIPPING:
Fast handling — ships same or next business day via USPS Ground Advantage with tracking.Signature required upon delivery. Delivery estimates are determined by carrier based on the service selected. Once accepted by carrier, transit time is outside of seller control.
Note on shipping cost:This is a flat shipping rate of $48, which covers USPS Ground Advantage postage, tracking, insurance for the full item value, signature confirmation for delivery security, and packaging materials to ensure safe transit. I don\'t inflate shipping costs — this reflects what actual shipping runs for this item\'s size and weight. If actual shipping comes in under this amount, I will refund the difference. I do not profit from shipping and want your item to arrive safely without any surprises.
