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Updated 10/03/2026
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Sorry for the quality of the photos, Home Renovation
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The inscription reads
Presented to
CAPT. J.W. KRAFT
BY CHARLES VANPELT
Sept. 28th 1864.
CLICK THE ABOVE ICON TO READ THE COMPLETE HISTORY FOLDER
A369. MARYLAND PRESENTATION CAVALRY OFFICERS’ SABER - 1ST MARYLAND CAVALRY BATTALION POTOMAC HOME BRIGADE: This is a W. Clauberg Presentation grade saber, presented to Captain John W. Kraft; 1st Maryland Cavalry Battalion Potomac Home Brigade, known as "Cole's Cavalry" or "Cole's Rangers."
John Wesley Kraft is sometimes recorded as enlisting August 10, 1861, which may actually be the date of muster of the company he eventually commanded, not his own. His first certain record is in the 1st Maryland Heavy Artillery, US, mustering in April 28, 1864, as 2nd Lieutenant of Company A. The regiment did not complete its organization, however, and Kraft transferred with recruits for it into Cole’s Cavalry, a battalion of 4 companies that had expanded into a full regiment, the “First Maryland Home Brigade Cavalry,” becoming Captain of Company H on October 8, 1864.
That unit had very active service, credited with more than80 skirmishes and battles during the war. By the time Kraft joined it they had been serving under Sheridan in the Shenandoah Valley against General Jubal Early and he replaced an officer killed in action. His record shows him to have been present into January 1865, and he would have been present for duty in West Virginia when his unit was operating against Mosby and guarding the Baltimore and Ohio Railroads. He was later placed on court-martial duty, but present in February and March, and then on Special Duty at Brigade Headquarters in late April 1865. He mustered out with the regiment June 28, 1865, at Harpers Ferry.
The identity of the “Presenter,” Charles VanPelt is unknown.,thought there was a Private by that name who did enlist in both units as Captain Kraft. However, he immediately deserted and it is very doubtful he bestowed this sword to the captain.
Once unsheathed, the wonderfully frosted blade decorationsare revealed. The obverse features a small frosted vignette which contains a variety of scrollwork just above the plain ricasso. A slight gap in the decorations leads to a larger vignette which contains scrollwork that flanks a nicely detailed spread winged eagle that is perched on a banner which reads “E PLURIBUS UNUM” The reverse blade features similar decorations with the eagle being replaced by the bold letters “U.S.” with intricate scrolls contained in the letters.
Reverse ricasso is marked “W. CLAUBERG / SOLINGEN” aroundthe signature Clauberg knight. The hilt is also attractive, and features the standard 3-band cavalry guard which is nicely cast and decorated with laurel leaves at the top. The guard terminates with a wide quillon area that features floral decorations on the underside. Laurel leaves flank a patriotic shield on the pommel which lead to a domed cap. Constructed of wood, the grip features a typical M1860 swelled center, wrapped in high quality sharkskin with grooves that accommodate twisted brass wire. The scabbard compliments the sword and is constructed of German silver-plated brass and features mounts lush with oak leaves and acorns. The upper and middle mounts each accommodate a carry ring. The wear on the reverse show it was carried.
CONDITION: The blade remains bright and reflect generous amounts of its original finish with scattered freckling throughout its length. Frosted decorations remain unmolested. Guard exhibits a pleasing patina with nice amounts of original gilding and scattered blemishes from age and handling. Grip remains secured with tight wire and 1 chip in the sharkskin wrap at the pommel. The scabbard retains its nickeled finish on the side of the presentation. Mounts remain firmly secured to the scabbard body. Scattered blemishes from age and wear. This is a very attractive non-regulation, presentation grade M1860 cavalry saber with a nice inscription on the scabbard.
The sword comes with an 84-page history binder, and shipping & insurance is free. $3500.00
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Remittance by Mail
Send to:
Arizona Swords
530 E. McDowell Road, Suite 107-160
Phoenix, AZ 85004
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Contact Number: (602) 245-4721
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