Pipe-backed blade with floral and crossed flag etching at the lower half of the blade. Blade length of 33.5". No apparent markers mark, likely an early war import. Brass floral relief guard, backstrap and pommel. Wire-wrapped leather grip. Original sword knot. Original iron scabbard bearing a silver plaque between the carrying mounts with an inscription that reads: "The Constitution and the Union / Capt. E.B. Bassett / Master of the Allegan Lodge No. 111 / From the members of the craft / August 1862". Floral relief brass carrying mounts. According to an article in the September 1st, 1862 edition of the Allegan Journal, this sword was presented to Captain Bassett by the Allegan Masonic lodge in a ceremony before the 19th Michigan Infantry was deployed for duty. Captain Bassett (with his sword) and many men of the 19th Michigan were captured on March 25th, 1863 by Confederate forces under the command of Nathan Bedford Forrest near Brentwood, Tennessee. Captain Bassett was later exchanged in a prisoner swap but was dishonorably discharged shortly after. He died of tuberculosis in November of 1865. In a North-South Trader publication of January 1981, it is said that this sword was captured and used by an unnamed Confederate officer for the remainder of the war. Light pitting to the blade. Wear to the sword knot. Pitting and denting to the scabbard. Overall very good condition for a sword of this age. | Please note all lots show signs of wear commensurate with age and use, and the lack of a statement regarding condition does not imply the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from defects or the effects of aging. Unless otherwise stated, all information provided is the opinion of DuMouchelles' specialists. Should you have any specific questions regarding the condition of this lot, please use the ìRequest Condition Reportî or ìAsk a Questionî buttons or email conditions@dumoart.com.