Original U.S. WWI Era Model 1902 Army Officers Triple Etched Dress Sword with Early Horn Grip & Scabbard by The McLilley & Co. of Columbus, Ohio

Original Item: Only One Available. The Model 1902 Army Officers' Saber is the current sword used by officers of the United States Army. The official nomenclature for the current regulation U.S. Army saber is “saber for all officers, Model 1902”. It was adopted on July 17, 1902 by authority of General Order No. 81. The M1902 saber was authorized for all officers, both infantry and cavalry, with the exception of Chaplains. The lightly curved blade measures between 30-34 inches long with weights initially specified by the U.S. Army to be between 20.2 and 22.8 ounces (573 to 647 grams) and a point of balance of 3.25 inches from the hilt as specified for infantry sabers.

This is a very early example, primarily due to the early horn grip, which is well-retained. It is likely from Pre-WWI. As with most, it is fully nickel plated, with a triple-etched slightly curved blade, and a nickel plated steel scabbard. The etching on the blade shows the standard heraldry of the U.S. Army with the E Pluribus Unum Eagle along with floral motifs.

The ricasso is etched with maker or supplier information:

THE
MCLILLEY
& CO.
COLUMBUS, O.

This example is not named, which is correct for one of the earlier examples. Condition is very good, though there is some oxidation and wear to the nickel plate, which has peppered tiny bits of oxidation across the scabbard. There is also some heavy wear through on the hilt, which has minor movement. The leather blade buffer is no longer present, and the grip is a bit loose to the hilt.

A very nice example, ready to add to your collection!

Approximate Dimensions:
Blade Length: 32"
Blade Style: Curved Single Edge w/ Fuller
Overall length: 37 1/4“
Guard dimensions: 5" width x 5” length
Scabbard length: 33”