Being a Model 1852 Naval officer's sword, its 25.25 in. steel blade etched with nautical motifs, the ricasso marked with "U" and "S" in two circles, the brass guard carries a bold USN and terminates in a dolphin's head quillon, the grip is wrapped in ray skin that is bound with twisted brass wire, the sword is housed in a Japanese scabbard sporting ornate silver-toned mounts.

By descent from George H. Preble to Henry O. Preble and his heirs, the sword leaving the family in 1995. A full account of its journey is available.

The blade was possibly shortened a bit to accommodate its smaller Japanese scabbard; the sword lacks a pommel cap; remnants only of a cord; the scabbard with considerable wear and scuffing. Overall good condition.

$800 - 1,200