Description:

SWORD PRESENTED TO A RUSSIAN OFFICER BY NICHOLAS II
Presentation sword, ca. 1800 French officer's sword with 32 1/2" blade, 37 3/4" overall given to a Russian officer, presumably by Nicholas II. The curved blade bears two hallmarks, one "K", the second indistinguishable, and gilt engravings on either side. One side bears fasces supporting a "Liberty" cap, with "REPUBLIQUE FRANCOISE" engraved beneath, and "VIVAT" above. The reverse bears crossed flags and "Liberty" caps, with "VAINCRE OU MOURIR POUR LA LOI" engraved above. The top of the blade is engraved "KLINGENTHAL", though the style is totally dissimilar to the correct engraving for the French sword maker. Nonetheless, the engravings are not recent and may have been undertaken on another maker's blade more to impress the recipient than to deceive. The blade has been fitted into a brass ribbed grip bearing the cipher of Tsar Nicholas II and laurel leaves against a stippled background. The top of the grip is engraved in Cyrillic, presumably with a presentation. That engraving is also not of recent creation. At the bottom of the grip a red enamel Maltese cross with crown emblem has been fitted. Also present is the original sturdy leather scabbard fitted with brass throat and drag decorated with leaves and berries, a hanger band likewise decorated at center. One hanger eyelet is missing, the belt loop showing much wear from use. This item may be contemporary to the period, or a slightly later souvenir or "fantasy" piece", and is therefore sold "as-is". Should be examined.

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February 18, 2014 11:00 AM EST
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $3,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000