Skip to main content
Go to accessibility options

Description

Rare Form, Superb Condition M1840 Cavalry Officer's Saber of Col. Ernest G. Chorman, 8th Pennsylvania Cavalry, Chorman's Mounted Rangers, with His Name Uniquely Incorporated into the Blade etch. Although unmarked, the sword is believed to be the work of Sheble & Fisher of Philadelphia. Chorman, who served with the Battalion of Baltimore and D. C. in the Mexican War, organized Chorman's Mounted Rangers at the beginning of the Civil War which was incorporated into the 8th Penna. Cav. with Chorman commanding, receiving his commission to colonel Sept. 18, 1861. Chorman subsequently resigned his commission amid controversy on Jan. 15, 1862. The saber is unique in our experience. 41" overall with very heavy 35" blade. The blade is deeply etched for 2/3 its length in a style and pattern we have not previously encountered. The obverse exhibits delicate tendril like scroll work with arms and flag panoplies including an American shield, and features a large spread wing eagle with shield on its breast with extensive hand engraved details. The reverse exhibits similar motifs with a large block US and, at the base of the blade just above the ricasso in a scroll bordered etched panel, "E. G. Chorman". The blade is about perfect, generally light gray with some touches of luster. The hilt is also unique. The branches, top of the guard and pommel are all extensively decorated with scroll including oak leaves and acorns on the top of the guard. The guard also utilizes a small extra branch inboard where it enters the pommel cap. Sharkskin grip perfect with twisted brass wire. Retains the original scallop edge buff leather washer. The steel scabbard is smooth, about perfect with dark patina mixing with the original blue finish, very nice. Heavy brass ring mounts decorated with scroll engraving and massive brass carrying rings. Plain brass drag. The sword is overall completely untouched. The sword is accompanied by a group of interesting and germaine documents. A 4¾" X 7¾" song sheet titled "The Pennsylvania Mounted Rangers War Song respectfully dedicated to Col. E. G. Chorman", a patriotic envelope for "Chorman's Mounted Rangers Headquarters, Girard House, Philadelphia" with a mounted trooper at upper left, a 5¾" X 8½" manuscript copy of a telegram from Simon Cameron dated Sept. 15, 1861 ordering Chorman to "forward your regiment to Washington" and signed by "E. D. Baker", and an 8" X 9¾" quartermaster document dated Oct. 2, 1861 to furnish transportation for "Eleven hundred sixty seven, Officers & men & 934 horses of Chorman's Mtd Rifle Regt" to Washington. All documents in fine condition and representing an important adjunct to the sword. An exceptional grouping with a very rare and most impressive Civil War officer's saber.

Auction Info

Auction Dates
November, 2008
20th-21st Thursday-Friday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 1
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 865

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
19.5% of the successful bid per lot.

Shipping, Taxes, Terms and Bidding
Sales Tax information

Important information concerning Sales Tax and Resale Certificates. Learn More

Terms and Conditions  |  Bidding Guidelines and Bid Increments |  Glossary of Terms
Sold on Nov 20, 2008 for: Sign-in or Join (free & quick)
Track Item