Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. The Model 1902 Army Officers' Saber is the current sword used by officers of the United States Army. The official nomenclature for the current regulation U.S. Army saber is “saber for all officers, Model 1902”. It was adopted on July 17, 1902 by authority of General Order No. 81. The M1902 saber was authorized for all officers, both infantry and cavalry, with the exception of Chaplains.
This 1902 Sword dates to the Inter-War era, and has a unique decorative etching in the grip. It is named to John Warren Smith Jr., who graduated from the Florida Military Academy. Smith joined the FMA in September 1930, as was found in a period newspaper article. He was awarded this saber in recognition of trustworthiness, ability and exemplary conduct. This honor was the highest bestowed on any officer by the academy. This is from a newspaper article announcing the awarding of this exact sword. Provenance doesn’t get any better than this!
The Florida Military University is a defunct school without much reference online, making this a scarce piece!
The etching on the blade shows the standard heraldry of the U.S. Army with U.S. and E PLURIBUS UNUM, and various stands of arms. It’s engraved JOHN WARREN SMITH JR. on one side, and F.M.A. on the other side for the Florida Military Academy. This sword being a special example is likely why the grip has been uniquely etched with oak leaves and acorns.
The sword is maker-marked on the Ricasso but has become a bit oxidized, we believe that it’s “McHelen & Co. Columbus OH”. Condition is very good, though there is some oxidation and wear to the nickel plate, which has started to bubble up and flake on the scabbard. There is also some wear through on the hilt, which has minor movement. The leather blade buffer is still present as is the sword knot.
A very nice named example with provenance, ready to add to your collection!
Approximate Dimensions:
Blade Length: 31 ¾”
Blade Style: Curved Single Edge w/ Fuller
Overall length: 37“
Guard dimensions: 5" width x 5” length
Scabbard length: 32 ⅞”
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