Sword w/scabbard: U.S.

1861-1865

Place madeNew York, New York, United States, North America

Steel, brass, fish skin; steel

Overall: 38 3/4 x 4 3/4 x 3 1/8 in. ( 98.4 x 12.1 x 7.9 cm )

Gift of Kiliaen Van Rensselaer V

1946.33ab

According to the accession records, this sword was used by the donor's father, Kiliaen Van Rensselaer IV, in the Civil War.

DescriptionSword with slightly curved, single-edged steel blade with two fullers, one broad and one narrow, and etched designs on obverse and reverse; brass hilt with grip covered in fish skin and wrapped with wire; oval counter-guard with openwork flower and scroll design on obverse side and globular quillon with flattened sides; helmet-shaped pommel with leaf and berry border; steel scabbard with two carrying rings and asymmetrical drag.

Markingsetched: on reverse of blade below hilt: "TOMES, SON / % / MELVAIN / NEW YORK" etched: on reverse of blade about 7 inches from hilt: "U. S"

ClassificationsMILITARY TOOLS & EQUIPMENT: SWORD