Boyle & Gamble (NCO) Sword

By John Sexton · Originally published October 2018 · p. 30

Mr. Sexton, I own two antique swords that were passed down to me from my father, and I presume that he received them from his father. I first remember them in our home in my early teens. They were relegated to the attic, basement, or wherever, and I never thought much about them. Recently I decided to see what I could find out about them, rather than let them continue to be mystery items. My knowledge of military swords was pretty much limited to my own Navy dress sword, but in doing some exploring on the internet, I think I have some idea of what I have. One of them, I believe, is from the Civil War and is a Confederate non-commissioned officer’s sword. From what I can tell, based on the spade shape of the frog button on the scabbard, it was manufactured by Boyle and Gamble in Richmond. Again, from my internet exploration, I think the scabbard is the original and is of the “old” style, designed to be worn on an over-the-shoulder sword belt. A “frog” is still attached to the scabbard. The sword itself seems to me to be in pretty decent shape. The scabbard, on the other hand, has a fair amount of flaking. The blade is slightly over 27 ½ inches long and is curved upward slightly toward the tip. My impression from visiting a couple of web sites (including yours) is that a sword of this particular design is somewhat rare. For that reason, I have attached several recent photographs of the sword and scabbard and would like to take you up on your offer to provide an initial evaluation as to whether or not an appraisal is appropriate for this sword. Name withheld upon request Dear Sir, Congratulations on your find. I am glad you used my “Confederate Edged Weapons” gallery on my old CivilWarDealer. com website to properly identify this rare sword. This is only the third complete Boyle & Gamble Non-Commissioned Officer’s (NCO) sword in original complete scabbard with frog I am aware of, and this after studying Confederate weapons for 40 years. Boyle & Gamble of Richmond, Va., was one of the largest manufacturers of Confederate edged weapons and their products are popular in the collector’s market and often bring premiums over other makers. This pattern is seen most often missing the scabbard. The scabbard and frog more than doubles the value. The condition appears to be quite fine and “as found.” Even though the scabbard is flaking and has a bend, it still is better than most leather scabbards on other Confederate edged weapons. I saw your comments about a 2nd style scabbard with ring mounts (which would require hangers) made for the later NCO swords. I doubt that is a 2nd NCO type as NCOs did not wear a sword belt and a frog was needed to attach it to the waist belt. Union Civil War NCO swords were worn on over the shoulder belts or baldrics. This pattern Confederate NCO sword has frog that apparently attaches to a waist belt, but I have never seen a photograph of soldier wearing one. Rarely carried in battle, but used in ceremonial activities; the company “officer of the day” would wear a distinctive sash and sword, as often seen in photos of Union NCOs. At peak of market about 15 years ago, an identified example in similar condition sold for $25,000. Today’s market is much softer, but swords recently have had a bit of resurgence in auction and reported dealer sales. If I were cataloging for auction I would estimate it at $8,00012,000. That would create good participation and price realized would show where the market is today in my opinion. John Sexton John is an certified appraiser with International Society of Appraisers specializing in Civil War memorabilia. He authenticates and evaluates other rare and valuable historic items as well. His website is www.civilwardealer. com. He is coauthor of the book Confederate Bowie Knives (2012) by Jack Melton, Josh Phillips and John Sexton, that was published by Mowbray Publishing Inc. Send “Ask The Appraiser” questions and photographs to [email protected].

Overall view of sword and leather scabbard.

Note the Boyle & Gamble distinctive “spade shaped” frog button.

Correct and original scabbard drag.