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Confederate Presentation Foot Officer's Sword With Brass Scabbard Made by E. J. Johnston of Macon, Georgia. An extraordinary...
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Description
Confederate Presentation Foot Officer's Sword With Brass Scabbard Made by E. J. Johnston of Macon, Georgia. An extraordinary presentation staff officer's sword. In old English script:Presented to
Lt. Coln. W. B. Betts 13th Regt. Ala. Vols
By a few of his brother officers for gallant conduct on the battlefield
1862
Lieutenant Colonel William Betts, from Macon, Georgia, was named major of the newly-formed 13th Alabama Infantry and rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel before resigning his commission. The unit saw action at Seven Pines, Yorktown, and Fredericksburg. At Gettysburg, Betts' unit suffered 50% losses.
Probably the most unique feature of this sword is the brass scabbard, which is profusely engraved with a floral design. Between the top and middle mount, under stylized 6 pointed stars, is "CS" which is over a spread-winged eagle facing right; the eagle appears to be rising from flames. Under the eagle is engraved "US". Below the middle mount is a stand of two Confederate First National Flags with 6 pointed stylized stars. The blade, which is loose to the hilt since the washer is missing, is etched on top as well as both sides from the ricasso to within 7½" of the point.
The right side of the blade has the normal floral pattern, etched with a panel "E. J. Johnston & Co., Macon, Ga." Below this are crossed cannons, muskets with bayonets, halberds, pikes, and two sets of flags. The first appear to be regimental. Additionally, there are two Confederate First National flags with stylized stars. The opposite side of the blade is etched with much of the same design- cannon, flags, etc. The guard has a brown stained wood grip with petite twisted brass wire. The hilt retains some of its original gilt.
Provenance: The sword recently came from the Betts family where the sword has remained since the Civil War and has never before been on the market.
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