Original Item: Only One Available. During the 19th and early 20th Centuries, the City of Mexico had a very tumultuous history, with many revolutions, military coups, restorations of the nobility, and so forth. In 1876 General Porfirio Díaz seized power in a coup, and then ruled ruled Mexico as president in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This period was known as the "Porfiriato" period, coined by Mexican historian Daniel Cosío Villegas. Díaz pursued a policy of "order and progress," inviting foreign investment in Mexico and maintaining social and political order, by force if necessary. There were tremendous economic, technological, social, and cultural changes during this period.

This Model 1822/61 Army Model 1822 Sword comes from that period, and is marked with the "Liberty Cap" with rays of sun logo over RM (República Mexicana) marking on the blade's ricasso. The other side of the ricasso bears the German maker's name:

This company is a famous manufacturer of military swords and cutlery in Solingen, Germany - a city famous since the middle ages for its metal-working and craftsmanship in sword making. Per J. Anthony Carter's fine work GERMAN SWORD AND KNIFE MAKERS, the traditional manufacturing of swords at WKC dates back to the year 1774 when the Weyersberg first registered the ''Kings head'' as their trademark. Later in 1883 the company merged with the Kirschbaums and the company WKC was formed as it exists today. It was heavily involved with exporting edged weapons to South American countries in the late 19th and early 20th century.

The design is a typical cavalry saber of the time, with a 33" curved single edged fullered blade, and a 3 bar basket hilt. Previously the design had the hilt made of multiple different metals, but in 1861 the design was switched to a two piece all brass hilt. The brass is in good condition, however the leather wrapped wooden grip is degraded. The leather is mostly missing, and the rope that makes the grip easier to hold is mostly exposed. The wire wrapping is almost completely gone, and the hilt is somewhat loose.

The steel blade has a lovely oxidized patina, with some minor staining and peppering. The edge is sharp, and does not show any major dents or other damage

Fascinating and just as it came out of the attic, and excellent collector's opportunity. Ready to be gently cleaned and put on display!