Iron hilt comprised of a central guard surrounded by a large basket of heavy iron bars, with tinned or galvanized finish. Cord wrapped shaped grip. 32 3/4” broad fullered blade blades with squared tip to inflict the cheek wounds which were considered marks of valor and stitched unevenly to display a scar. Dueling was popular among college students, many of which were in military training to be officers. Dueling proficiency was considered defining of character. Scars from dueling wounds were considered badges of courage and the duel was ended when the first blood was drawn. This example as with most, disassemble by unscrewing the pommel nut allowing them to be transported to the site of the duel clandestinely as dueling was illegal. Superior preservation with the red felt covered sheet iron basket liner intact.
