US Army PRESENTATION Sword To CAPTAIN M1850 Eagle Head Glass Eyes Antique
Model 1850 Army Officer’s Saber, personally inscribed to Capt. Rafter, 71st Infantry, New York National Guard. This regulation pattern sword was the official sidearm of U. Army and National Guard officers, carried for parades, drills, and formal occasions. Blade length: 30 7/8. Overall length (in scabbard): 37 1/2. Features: finely etched blade, eagle-head pommel with red glass eyes, original wire-wrapped grip, nickel guard with open floral and U. Design, and nickel-plated steel scabbard. The red glass eyes set in the eagle’s head pommel are an especially striking detail, giving the piece extra presence and making it stand out compared to standard issue examples. This saber was presented to Capt. Rafter, who served with the 71st Infantry Regiment, N. Y. N. G. A historic New York regiment with service dating back to the Civil War, Spanish-American War, and World War I. By the late 1920s, when Rafter is documented as a captain, the regiment numbered over 1,100 men and was one of the most prominent units in the New York Guard. Condition is consistent with age – blade etching remains visible, hilt and grip intact, scabbard shows expected wear. Overall, a wonderful display piece with both military and presentation significance. Perfect for collectors of militaria, edged weapons, or New York National Guard history.