Presentation M1850 infantry officer's sword. Solingen, Germany: W. Clauberg. Ricasso reverse stamped with standing knight logo and "W / Clauberg / Solingen". Blade etched with Indian chief and knight, as well as various floral and patriotic motifs. Spine etched with "IRON PROOF". Approx. 39 in., blade approx. 33 in. 

Complete with metal scabbard featuring a relief of Lady Liberty. Includes the following presentation engraving: "Presented to / Louis A. Philipoteaux / Capt. Co. K. 8th Regt. V.R.C. / by the members of his Co. as a token of / their appreciation of his worthiness as an Officer / and Gentleman, April 16th 1865." 

An elegant sword presented to Capt. Louis A. Philipoteaux, Company K, 8th Veteran Reserve Corps. The blade exhibits a dark patina with slight wear to the tip. There are several motifs etched on both sides of the blade, including an Indian chief above a knight, both on the blade's obverse. The guard, while a little small for a typical basket guard found on a staff & field officer's sword, is still intricately designed and completed with an eagle's head for the quillon. Another eagle can be seen on the side of the pommel, encapsulating the cool silver grip with the warm brass. 

Louis A. Philipoteaux (alt. Philippoteaux) was a French immigrant living in New York City when he originally enlisted at the very outset of hostilities on 26 April 1861. He was mustered in as a 1st Sergeant into Company B of the 10th New York Infantry, also known as the National Zouaves. Signed up for 2 years of service, they embarked for Fortress Monroe, where they first saw action in reserve at the Battle of Big Bethel. He was discharged, possibly for promotion, as he was shortly thereafter commissioned the Captain of Company A of the 65th New York Infantry on July 1st.  

The 65th New York was attached to Buell's Division in the Army of the Potomac and in the spring of 1862, joined the Peninsula Campaign. They were bloodied throughout the campaign, fighting at the Siege of Yorktown, the Battles of Williamsburg, Fair Oaks, and Seven Pines, and lost 15 killed, 43 wounded, and 9 missing during the Seven Days before Richmond. 

After the bloody melee of the Peninsula Campaign, Philipoteaux was discharged on 18 July 1862. Though the reasons are not specified in the records, he may have been suffering from the physical and mental tolls of war. 

The 8th Veteran Reserve Corps was organized in Chicago on 10 October 1863, consolidating several companies of the 1st Battalion of the Invalid Corps. Records of the unit are scant; however, we can infer that Philipoteaux, who already had command experience, was elected Captain of Company K. The regiment was composed of men with injuries or illnesses, but who were capable of light duty and likely served garrison, provost, and guard duties. 

This fine sword is a testament to the high regard and esteem felt by those commanded by Philipoteau.

Note: This lot cannot be packaged and shipped in-house. Successful bidders winning items marked as being packaged and shipped by a third-party service are responsible for paying the third party directly. We are happy to offer complimentary drop-off service to local third-party packing/shipping companies in Columbus, Ohio.

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