Original U.S. Pre-WWII 211th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Model 1902 Army Officer’s Sword with Scabbard & Sword Knot - Lt. William B. Vaughan
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Original Item: Only One Available.
The Model 1902 Army Officer’s Saber remains the current regulation sword for officers of the United States Army. Officially designated the “Saber for All Officers, Model 1902,” it was adopted on July 17, 1902, by authority of General Order No. 81. This pattern was authorized for all commissioned officers—both infantry and cavalry—with the exception of chaplains.
The M1902 features a lightly curved blade measuring approximately 30–34 inches in length. Original U.S. Army specifications called for a blade weight between 20.2 and 22.8 ounces (573–647 grams) and a point of balance approximately 3.25 inches from the hilt, consistent with infantry saber standards.
This example is particularly desirable due to its named and unit-presented blade inscription, etched on both sides:
PRESENTED BY
BTRY. H, 211TH ART. A.A.
TO LT. WILLIAM B. VAUGHAN
This inscription denotes a presentation from Battery H, 211th Artillery (Anti-Aircraft) to Lieutenant William B. Vaughan. While limited service information has been located to date, the inscription offers excellent research potential and adds significant historical interest.
The blade ricasso is marked to Rosenfeld S. Rapkin Co., Boston, Massachusetts, likely the distributor. This firm used this specific name only between 1900 and 1910, allowing the sword to be confidently dated to the early 20th century.
Condition is very good overall. The blade retains much of its original plating, with notable loss concentrated at the tip and around the etched presentation areas. Light oxidation and wear are present, consistent with age and service. The scabbard shows light wear and oxidation but remains solid, with both suspension rings intact. The original leather blade buffer is present.
The sword retains its original officer’s leather sword knot, still wrapped around the guard. As expected for its age, the leather is fragile and raw but remains an important and increasingly scarce original component.
A fine, named example of the U.S. Model 1902 Officer’s Saber—well-suited for the advanced military edged weapons collector or researcher.
Approximate Dimensions:
Blade Length: 29 3/4"
Blade Style: Curved Single Edge w/ Fuller
Overall length: 35 1/4“
Guard dimensions: 5" width x 5” length
Scabbard length: 30 3/4”
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