Original Austrian Austro-Prussian War Era Model 1861 Infantry Officer’s Saber by F. Hörster of Solingen with Scabbard & Sword Knot
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Original Item. Only One Available. The Austrian Model 1861 saber was the sword used by the Austro-Hungarian Army in WW1 and it continues to be the pattern used for the modern dress saber of Austria. This example however appears to pre-date the war by a few decades, as it is marked as being manufactured by F. Hörster of Solingen. This company was founded in 1850 by Friedrich Hörster, and was in existence until 1870, when Friedrich Emil and Fritz Hörster changed the name to "E. & F. Hörster". That means this example pre-dates 1870, and is therefore in the era of the Austro-Prussian War of 1866.
The 28 ⅞” blade shows heavy oxidation from across the years which has been partially cleaned away. The ricasso is marked:
F. Hörster
Solingen
This denotes manufacture by F. Hörster & Co.. This company was founded in 1850 by Friedrich Hörster, and was in existence until 1870, when Friedrich Emil and Fritz Hörster changed the name to "E. & F. Hörster". They exported edged weapons to America during the Civil War, and made several other bayonets and swords for the domestic market. ;For more information please see GERMAN KNIFE AND SWORD MAKERS by J. Anthony Carter.
The wire-wrapped sharkskin grip is in good order although some of the wire is coming undone. The hilt has a very darkened patina from oxidation and overall age. The guard is slotted, curved and extends to the pommel in a sweeping fashion. The overall length is 34 ⅜”.
The original 30 ¾” scabbard shows heavy wear to the finish but very little denting, and the original bullion sword knot is in great order with a bullion double-headed eagle to one side and a royal cypher on the other. There is wear to the strap of the knot with some of the material coming undone, but it has held up very well. It is rather difficult to get the sword to insert all the way, but it can be done with enough force.
An outstanding early Austrian sword, ready for display.
Specifications:
Blade Length: 28 7/8”
Overall Length: 34 3/8”
Scabbard Length: 30 3/4”
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