RARE Confederate Staff Officer Sword, Alabama SOLD

Very rare example of the pure regulation Confederate States of America Staff Officer pattern sword as made by James Conning of Mobile, Alabama, circa 1861. One of less than nine known to exist. This fine blade is fresh from an old upstate New York collection and has never been molested in any way--untouched attic condition. It retains the full original leather grip with wire wrap. It has a plain blade, as most do, but foliage engraving on the pommel cap and a large "CS" for Confederate States in the guard. Rarity 9+.