3134

CONFEDERATE B. DOUGLAS OF COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:3,500.00 USD Estimated At:7,000.00 - 9,000.00 USD
CONFEDERATE B. DOUGLAS OF COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA

STAFF & FIELD OFFICER’S SWORD. Overall length: 37 3/4". Blade length: 29 3/4". This sword was made by Douglas of Columbia, SC. It can be differentiated from similar Boyle & Gamble examples by the plain pommel top rather than the foliated pommel used by B&G. It may also be ruled out as a Froelich because there is no “L.F.1861” on the knuckle bow. Little is known about the firm of B. Douglas as they were unknown for many years until 2 swords were discovered marked, “B. DOUGLAS COLUMBIA”. This sword is not marked but compares favorably to marked examples. This example has a plain blade with a single wide unstopped fuller extending nearly to the guard. Original washer in place. The brass guard shows a somewhat crude “CS” in wreath with a star above. The remainder of the guard is covered with pierced foliate motifs. The drop down quillon has smooth sides & a feathered appearance on the top & bottom. Relatively plain knuckle bow with simple lineal decorations. There may be a sm. repair at the base of the knuckle bow but it is difficult to discern because of the crude nature of the manufacturing process. Undecorated well-formed pommel. Grip appears to be a skillful replacement with an aged appearance & full wire. Scabbard is likely not original to this sword but is a period replacement, possibly done during its useful life by a Confederate officer who broke his original scabbard. CONDITION: blade has a darkened patina & may have been over cleaned at some point & repatinated. Hilt shows a light golden brown patina overall. Grip is crusty, tarred oil cloth with dbl. twisted brass wire wrap. Scabbard mounts have a deep mustard patina. Scabbard body shows some flexing, particularly near the drag, but overall remains quite strong. (02-16592/BF). $7,000-9,000.