Sword, scabbard, leather cover and tassel

1917-1919

Place madeSpringfield, Massachusetts, United States, North America

Steel, other metal, bone; metal; leather

Overall: 40 1/8 x 4 3/4 x 3 in. ( 101.9 x 12.1 x 7.6 cm )

Gift of Mrs. John H. Marsching

1948.503a-d

The original owner of this sword, Major John H. Marsching, served in the 2nd Division, A.E.F., U.S. Army, during World War I.

DescriptionSword with curved, single-edged steel blade with etched military symbols, eagle insignia and floral decoration on obverse, and similar decoration framing initials "U.S." on reverse; white metal (aluminum?) hilt with bone grip with carved finger grooves; counter-guard with three branches on obverse side that meet at mid-point of knuckle bow; bird's head pommel with backstrap extending to ferrule at base of grip; white metal scabbard (b) with two carrying rings and asymmetrical drag; fitted chamois cover with single button closure (c); detached leather tassel (d).

Markingsetched: on reverse of blade: "SPRINGFIELD / ARMORY / SPRINGFIELD / Mass., U.S.A." and "U. S." handwritten in ink: inside flap of chamois cover: "Major John H. / Marsching"

ClassificationsMILITARY TOOLS & EQUIPMENT: SWORD