Sword Presented to James M. Green

Description (Brief):

Presented to Major James M. Green by Company F of the 48th New York Volunteer Regiment in 1862

James M. Green joined the 48th New York Infantry as a Captain in command of Company ‘F’ in 1861. He was presented this sword by Company ‘F’ when promoted to Major in June 1862. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in December, 1862. Green was killed in an assault on Fort Wagner, July 18, 1863.

The blade of this sword is long, slightly curved, and single-edged. The fuller is broad and shallow, and extends about three quarters of the way to the top of the blade. Both sides are decorated in silver and gold chasing. The obverse depicts a classical soldier and floral sprays and is inscribed “Presented to Major James M. Green, 48th Reg. N.Y.S.V. / by the Members of Company F.” The reverse depicts a Union soldier, a "U.S." monogram, and a variety of floral sprays. The grip of the sword is ovular and has a spiral shape. There is a wire chain wrapped around the grip in a spiral. The pommel features a casting of the US shield, and on the top there is a large burgundy garnet. The knuckle guard and counterguard are decorated with laurel sprays and scroll designs.

The scabbard is made of metal that has been painted brown in a wood pattern, and has three gold mounts. The top two mounts are identical, and each bear a casting of a scroll design surrounded by palm leaves with a ring of laurel leaves that cuts across the center. The drag features an eagle casting, along with a scroll design that is similar to the other mounts. There are two carrying rings on the scabbard, one on the right side of the two top mounts.