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VERY RARE LEECH & RIGDON SIGNED STAFF & FIELD

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:7,500.00 USD Estimated At:15,000.00 - 20,000.00 USD
VERY RARE LEECH & RIGDON SIGNED STAFF & FIELD

OFFICER SWORD. 32.25”, 1.25” Wide heavy unstopped fuller blade etched with 18” patriotic panels and “LEECH / and RIGDON” on ricasso. Leech & Rigdon maker marked officer swords are rare enough and this may be the only example known of model 1850 S&F. Hilt on top and bottom of guard has stippled texture not seen on any other Confederate staff sword. It was advertised that way when sold to Cullen in 1998 by Gary Hendershott along with letter from Don Tharpe stating it was part of his collection and all original. Original Leech scabbard has scalloped mounts of style unique to Leech & Rigdon. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: 1998 catalog when purchased, bill of sale, Don Tharpe letter of authenticity, copy of 1862 Leech & Rigdon ad selling swords. CONDITION: good-very good overall, slightly loose, gray blade with weak but all discernible etching. Leather grip 95% intact with few scuffs, tight twisted wire wrap. Leather scabbard body has repaired break, drag is professional restoration, scabbard overall recolored. PROVENANCE: Cullen Smith estate collection. (02-17231/JS). $15,000-20,000.