War of 1812 Era Officer Sword

Type / Pattern: U.S. War of 1812 Era Officer Sword
Approx. Date: Early 19th century, circa 1790–1820
Origin: United States – officer’s private purchase, European-influenced
Current Status: Private collection (Historical Sword Society)

Abstract: This War of 1812 era officer’s sword represents a transitional period in early American military arms, when formal standardization had not yet been fully established. Influenced heavily by British and French designs of the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, such swords often feature light, versatile blades and simplified guard structures. Their form reflects both the practical requirements of early U.S. military service and the broader European traditions from which American sword design evolved.

Image Set

Detailed photographs documenting the sword’s full profile, hilt, guard, blade form, markings, and condition.

View 01

Primary artifact view.

View 02

Additional artifact view.

View 03

Additional artifact view.

View 04

Additional artifact view.

View 05

Additional artifact view.

View 06

Additional artifact view.

View 07

Additional artifact view.

View 08

Additional artifact view.

View 09

Additional artifact view.

View 10

Additional artifact view.

View 11

Additional artifact view.

View 12

Additional artifact view.

Specifications

Overall length	[mm / in]
Blade length	[mm / in]
Blade width (at ricasso)	[mm / in]
Blade thickness (at ricasso)	[mm / in]
Point of balance	[mm / in from guard]
Weight	[g / lb]
Fullers	[description]
Edge geometry	[description]
Hilt material	[brass / steel / etc.]
Grip	[wood/leather/wire/etc.]
Scabbard	[present/absent; material; markings]

Marks, Inscriptions, and Identification Basis

Observed markings: [List spine, ricasso, guard, scabbard marks]
Interpretation: [Arsenal/manufacturer, inspector marks, unit marks, export marks]
Identification basis: [Pattern features, dimensions, comparison references]

References: Add citations to books, catalogs, museum collections, or archival documents.

Condition and Conservation Notes

Blade: [pitting, active rust, polish condition]
Hilt: [tightness, cracks, repairs, plating loss]
Scabbard: [dents, throat fit, drag condition]
Stabilization actions: [what was done, what is planned]

Provenance

[List acquisition details, prior owners (if known), dealer notes, and supporting documentation.]