CIVIL WAR CONFEDERATE NAVAL CUTLASS FROM CATHERINE’S FORGE IN FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA
inv # 02-14718

Overall length: 26 3/4″
Blade length: 21″

A superior example of one of the most recognizable of Confederate edged weapons emblazoned with “C S N.” on the pommel. These cutlasses were made by Charles Wellford at Catherine’s Furnace in Fredericksburg, Virginia. They were delivered to Richmond as early as the summer of 1861 and issued to various Confederate vessels. Plain blade has a central medial ridge with typical forging flaws near the center of 1 side. Solid brass hilt resembling that of the M1841 US Naval cutlass features a fully formed guard and drop quillon. The inside of the guard is stamped, “I I I” and “V”. The fish scale grip has no rivets and is topped by a flattened ovoid globular pommel. The front of the pommel is debossed, “C S N.”. The reverse has a diagonally oriented fouled anchor. Leather scabbard with decorated brass frog stud button. This example has its exceptionally rare original frog of stitched heavy cotton canvas fabric faced on the lower half with thick bridle leather.