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U.S. Model 1902 Army Officer's Saber – Defender Trade Mark – Etched Blade – Original-Style Scabbard
Original U.S. Model 1902 Army Officer's Saber featuring an extensively etched blade, distinctive multi-branch guard, black finger-grooved grip and steel scabbard with two suspension rings.
The blade bears the “TRADE / DEFENDER / MARK” marking near the ricasso and retains considerable decorative etching despite its rough condition. Surviving decoration includes the American eagle and shield, military trophies, arms, floral scrollwork and other traditional U.S. military motifs.
The Model 1902 was adopted for U.S. Army officers at the beginning of the 20th century and became an enduring part of the American officer's dress uniform tradition. This example is appropriately associated with the early-20th-century U.S. Army military era, although no claim is made that this particular sword participated in any specific conflict.
IMPORTANT CONDITION INFORMATION
This is a very rough-condition antique/vintage sword. Please examine all photographs carefully before purchasing.
The sword shows unusual damage consistent with possible exposure to significant heat or fire. Before cleaning, the scabbard was covered with considerable black, soot-like residue, and one side of the black grip shows visible deformation/melting that may have resulted from heat exposure.
There is no documented history confirming that the sword was actually involved in a fire, so the cause of this damage cannot be stated with certainty.
The sword and scabbard have received light cosmetic cleaning, which dramatically improved their appearance. Significant condition issues remain, including:
- Heavy oxidation and dark staining
- Extensive blade pitting and surface deterioration
- Finish/plating loss
- Particularly heavy deterioration toward the blade tip
- Oxidation, discoloration and wear to the guard and hilt
- Visible deformation/damage to one side of the grip
- Considerable oxidation, staining and surface wear to the steel scabbard
- General scratches, marks and wear consistent with substantial age and poor prior storage
Despite these issues, a surprising amount of the blade's original etched decoration remains visible, including the American eagle and military ornamentation. The sword also retains its scabbard, giving it considerable display presence.
This is NOT represented as a high-condition or restored example. It is being sold as a complete, heavily worn U.S. Model 1902 officer's sword with substantial age and condition issues.
An interesting piece for an American military sword collection, restoration/project collection, historical display, or collector who appreciates an artifact showing substantial age and character.
Sword and scabbard are sold exactly as pictured. Photographs are an important part of the condition description.
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