FINE REGULATION CONFEDERATE NAVAL OFFICER’S SWORD, COURTNENT & TENNENT, CHARLESTON, SC

FINE REGULATION CONFEDERATE NAVAL OFFICER’S SWORD, COURTNENT & TENNENT, CHARLESTON, SC

02-22037

This is a fine original & complete example of difficult regulation Confederate pattern to find especially with unmolested original scabbard, less than 20 survivors documented. 30.5″ blade stamped “COURTNEY & TENNET / CHARLESTON, SC.” who contracted this sword from the British firm of Robert Mole. Patriotic etched panels show cotton bolls, Confederate naval Insignia of cross cannons over fluted anchor, and a Confederate first national flag over anchor.
The correct leather scabbard has gilded brass mounts decorated with naval knots attaching sword rings and the drag has intertwined snakes, which is unique to this pattern. The hilt on this sword is decorated in the basket with cotton and tobacco leaves surrounding an oval medallion with a fluted anchor superimposed over crossed cannons. Sharkskin grip is wrapped with triple wire protected by a pommel & backstrap representing a sea serpent or dolphin with a scaled back.

CONDITION: Blade is gray/bright with well discerned etched panels with staining and light areas of pitting. Brass hilt and scabbard mounts retain strong areas of gold plate especially in protected areas. Sharkskin grip and wire wrap are complete and tight. The original protective washer is complete and intact. The leather scabbard body is complete and sound and much better than found on most examples. PROVENANCE: Private Southern collection.