No, it's an M1840 Musician's Sword. These were like the NCO swords, without the counterguards, and slightly shorter (by 4").Looks like a Collins and Co. M1840 NCO sword that has lost the wings on either side of the guard?
They were originally made that way.The edge is not sharp at all. Only the point.
better pictures of any part of the sword?
According to my reference The American Sword, by Harold Peterson, the blade length of the 1840 musician's sword is 28", whereas that of the NCO sword is 31 3/4".28 inches for the blade.
That wouldn't have anything to do with it. The counterguard shells (on the NCO sword) were integrally cast as part of the hilt. Quite sturdy and difficult to break off.Is the bit between the guard bow and the blade metal or leather?
It's been hanging on my dad's wall for about 30 years. The edge is not sharp at all. Only the point. I put it on a shelf next to the flag I received when I retired. I will keep it safe and pass it down to my son. Yesterday was kind of sad anyhow as my dad signed over the land to me that has been in the family since 1792. And also all his pistols.
Exactly.And, BTW, being a combat musician was nothing to sneeze at. Drum calls were used to transmit tactical instructions (as were bugle calls in the cavalry). So these were key personnel in the unit. Their additional duties included rendering first aid and tending to the wounded, including stretcher bearing.
More ceremonial over actual fighting.