FINE KNIGHTS TEMPLAR SWORD, LATE 19TH CENTURY

27 1/4" blade finely decorated near full length with Crusades scenes and motifs, Memento Mori (skull and crossed bones) and owner's name, with the gold background complete. Forte marked E A ARMSTRONG MFG. CO. 315 WABASH AVE CHICAGO. dating it 1892-99 when the company was sold to Ames. Heavily gilt hilt with star badge and ivory grip inscribed with Masonic motifs and monogram (smooth wear from use). Gilt scabbard with enamel cross. Premium quality and excellent preservation with the gold brilliant. A tiny bit of staining at the ricasso and the back of the scabbard with a worn/brown spot. Otherwise, glittering gold top to bottom!