^Lot 5232 VERY RARE CIVIL WAR ERA ROBY INSCRIBED PETITE

LIGHT CAVALRY OFFICER SABER. There are only a few of this pattern known, including one attributed to General William Tecumseh Sherman which was recently auctioned from Sherman estate last year for over $150,000. This example is one of only three named presentations to officers in Christopher Roby's personal company raised in 1864. They were named in "Spaulding Light Cavalry" in honor of Noah Spaulding, Mexican War hero who presented the company flag to Roby. "Adj't E. D. Bearce" & "Co. F. Spaulding Light Cavalry, MVM" finely etched on either side of 30" blade amongst characteristic Christopher Roby patriotic themed panels with flags, arms, eagle, and fine tendrilled foliate design. This unique pattern has smaller dimensions overall than his 1860 cavalry officer sabers. John Thillman is his text "Civil War Cavalry & Artillery Sabers" shows the 2 other named examples with unique size and fancy shoe style drags. This sword is pictured and described on pages 120-121 of "Swords of the American Civil War". Elijah Damon Bearce (1824-1906) served with the Spaulding Light Cavalry from its inception in 1864 through 1874 when he was appointed adjutant, dating manufacture of sword to 1874. This is an attractive, unique saber that would complete a collection of Roby cavalry sabers. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: copies of pages from Thillman "CIVIL WAR CAVALRY & ARTILLERY SABERS", and Bezdek "SWORDS of the AMERICAN CIVIL WAR" and biographic research file. CONDITION: fine overall, blade retains most all original polish & luster with light staining. Hilt & scabbard mounts retain traces of original gold wash in protected areas, light mustard patina overall. Scabbard body retains 98% bright plating with small areas of bubbling & oxidation. Sharkskin grip is fine retaining tightly held triple strand fancy brass wire wrap. PROVENANCE: Marcus Porpora lifelong sword collection. (02-26424-2/JS). NON-GUN. $3,000-6,000.