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SOUTH CAROLINA MILITIA OFFICER'S SWORD INSCRIBED

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:1,000.00 USD Estimated At:2,000.00 - 3,000.00 USD
SOUTH CAROLINA MILITIA OFFICER'S SWORD INSCRIBED

TO GENERAL MAXCY GREGG. Overall length: 35 1/2". Blade length: 28 1/4". General Maxcy Gregg was born in Columbia, South Carolina and was the great-grandson of a Commodore in the Continental Navy, and the grandson of Jonathan Maxcy who was the first president of South Carolina College. He practiced law with his father after passing the bar in 1839. Gregg was a Major with the 12th US Infantry during the Mexican War but did not participate in any major battles. He was an eager advocate of state's rights and was a member of the South Carolina Fire-Eaters. He proudly served as a member of the 1860 convention of secession. General Gregg helped organize the 1st South Carolina Volunteers and served as their first Colonel. He was promoted to Brigadier General and served admirably in A.P. Hill's Division. He served with distinction in many major battles until his death from wounds received at Fredericksburg. The blade of this sword has a single, narrow central fuller and has etched decoration over 2/3 of its length. Etching includes numerous foliate motifs, a spread winged American eagle with banner and a spray of arms with Liberty cap on pole. Gilded brass hilt with a cruciform guard, chained knuckle bow and helmeted pommel. 2 Piece mother of pearl grips. Gilded brass scabbard. The front of the scabbard has fine foliate engraving with an American shield in an oval. The reverse of the scabbard bears the inscription, "The President and Members of the Senate of the State of South Carolina to Colonel Maxcy Gregg 1st S.C.V. 1861". The sword itself is unquestionably original however, upon careful examination, we feel that the presentation on the scabbard may not be of the Civil War period and may have been added later in the life of the sword. We do not guarantee the inscription to be of the Civil War period. CONDITION: blade has a medium gray overall patina and etching remains reasonably clear. Some original gilding remains on the hilt in protected areas. Grips show some chipping on the edges but no major faults. Scabbard retains some original gilding with the balance being a rich brass patina. (02-16733/BF). $2,000-3,000.