Guns, Ammo, and Militaria Auction
Lot 2024:
Consigned directly from the family, this World War II bring back sword was mailed back home to Chicago, IL by PFC C.J. Durston to “Mr. David Durston, 4148 N. Leavitt, Chicago, 18, Illinois” (as written on the wooden crate it was mailed in). This was an Imperial German sword and scabbard for an officer in the “1st Pomm Feld- Art. Rgt, No2.” As etched on the blade. At one time this was a beautiful sword with Attention to detail especially on the blade. Beautifully etched on both sides the blade exhibits decorative elements that include the unit on one side of the blade surrounded by decorative elements including a officer on horseback towards the base of the blade. The other side of the blade has similar decorative elements with the most notable a group of 4 mounted soldiers pulling a field artillery piece. The blade is unsharpened and has been repaired between 7 and 10 inches from the tip of the sword. The sharkskin grip is in good shape, with tight and firm wire wrapping it. The washer at the base of the blade is partially present. Measurements of the sword are 36.5” long and blade is 30.5 long. Scabbard is 32.75 long. Overall length together is 37.75”. There is damage to the scabbard that corresponds with the sword blade damage. It all makes sense when you see that the damage to both line up with the length of the wooden crate that was used to ship the sword home. The soldier inserted it into the crate with the sword handle well protected. Crate dimensions 5″x6″ x29.5″. War souvenirs acquire a certain patina over the years. This one is no exception. Aside from the damage incurred shipping it home, and subsequent repair, this sword has seen better days. Please see pictures. Further research is needed to see what unit PFC Durston would have served with in the US Army.
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