CIVIL WAR MEDICAL STAFF OFFICERS SWORD & SCABBARD

This imported sword is the classic Civil War style specimen that the Surgeon General and U.S. Medical Department designated as the Medical Staff Sword. Adopted in 1840 and officially known as the Model 1840, this style medical staff sword remained as the regulation weapon for all medical officers of the United States Army for the next 62 years. Most likely a private purchase by a Federal medical officer this imported sword measures a total of 38 1/2” long and has a 31 1/2” long blade. In very good condition, this straight double-edged evenly tapered diamond-shape blade exhibits a profusely decorated floral design etching on both flats. Blade exhibits a semi-bright sheen. Reverse flat shows floral designs. Obverse flat same except for the letters “U.S. Medical Staff”. The ornate hilt is highly detailed cast brass and is in three parts; grip, pommel and guard. Both sides of the grip are cast and show an embossed oval medallion with an American spread winged eagle. The guard consists of two graceful quillons decorated with leaf motifs, in addition to two shield devices, one of the obverse and another on the reverse side of the hilt. The reverse shield is plain with raised borders while the obverse shield bears the letters “M S” (Medical Service) in old English script above sax 5-pointed stars all encircled with laurel leaves. Pommel is pineapple-shaped and secures the tang of the blade. All brass on the sword and scabbard wears a mellow bronze patina overall. Scabbard is straight and free of any damage with plain brass furniture. Excellent