Civil War: Medical Officer Staff Saber

Description:	A dress saber worn by medical staff officers in the Civil War. This sword was for decoration and ceremonial use only, it was not made of the kind of steel that would hold up during combat use. The swords handle is made of brass and its scabbard is also crafted from brass. The grip of the sword features a sculpted bald eagle which goes up to the guard, which is comprised of two laurel leaf petals forming the guard and a shield for the tang. The tang shield features Union style stars and the letters M.S. inlaid with silver. This stands for Medical Staff. The blade is steel and very thin. Its surface is acid etched and frosted with intricate patriotic designs. These include another eagle, a shield, more laurel leaves, cannons, axes, and the words Medical Staff down the blade. The scabbard has been badly crushed but it too is ornate. On the belt rings there is a design of holly leaves and berries, as well as a circular wheel pattern with holly leaves in the center. Dress swords like this one were made all across the Eastern Union and also imported from Europe.
Origin:	2010-09-17
Source:	http://indianamemory.contentdm.oclc.org/cdm/ref/collection/vchs/id/5801
Collection:	Vigo County Historical Society
Rights:	http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/UND/1.0/
Copyright:	Copyright Undetermined
Subjects:	United States -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865 Daggers & swords Wars & Conflicts Civil War -- Artifact Civil War -- Image

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