bobinwmass
Sergeant
- Joined
- Jul 14, 2019
- Location
- Western Massachusetts
I've been looking for a decent 1852 naval officer sword and I think this is one of the most pristine I have ever seen, and by a relatively scarce maker to boot. It is made by the Gorham Manufacturing Company, founded in 1831, jewelers primarily known for their silver flatware and silver sets. They also made some high quality and presentation swords. Take a look at the detail in the casting of the hilt. It looks like they then did additional hand chasing on the dolphin scales, oak leaves, and acorns. I love the oversized rope ornaments and oversized dolphin drag on the scabbard. I've only seen a handful of Gorham made swords in my years of collecting, and I think they have typically been 1850 Staff & Field swords. I have never seen a Gorham navy. It looks like this sword may never have been sold, thus accounting for its fine condition. There is a blank panel on the blade where an owner's name would be etched. Like a lot of part-time sword makers during the Civil War, Gorham tended to use blades made by Collins & Company. I'm pleased to add this one to the sword wall. Hope you enjoy looking at it also.