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U.S. Regulation of 1875 Marine Corps Officer's Sword with Presentation Inscription and Sheath

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:375.00 USD Estimated At:900.00 - 1,300.00 USD
U.S. Regulation of 1875 Marine Corps Officer's Sword with Presentation Inscription and Sheath
28 inch, curved, single edge blade, with a single fuller becoming double fullers near the tip and extensive etching on each side including "UNITED STATES MARINES" banners, scrollwork, shield and flag designs, and a darker etched panel with the name "S.L. Rothapfel" on the left side. Gilt finished hilt with acorn topped dual quillion guards and a pair of smooth ivory grip panels with decorative 5-pointed gilt stars. Nickel finished sheath, with gilt fittings, oak leaf engraved suspension bands and blooming roses on the drag. Born in 1882, Samuel Lionel Rothapfel lied about his age to join the Marines at 14, where he would fight in the Boxer Rebellion and rise to the rank of Drill Sergeant. Mustering out after a 7 year stint, Rothapfel spent a brief time as a minor league ballplayer and bartender before entering the motion picture theater business. An innovator in the field, he is credited with inventing the concept of hanging a curtain in front of the projection screen, synchronized orchestral accompaniment, and multi-projector operation, and would develop and manage several New York theaters, including the Roxy Theater and Radio City Music Hall. During the First World War, Rothapfel returned to the Marine Corps as a Captain, using his theater knowledge to produce recruiting films.
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Condition: Fine. Some light scratches and spotting are visible on the blade, with strong etching. The gilt finish on the hilt is very strong, showing well aged brass along the high edges and in the grip area. Cracking is visible on the grip, which shows an aged cream patina with grain accents. Sheath is good, with some flaking of the nickel showing a brown steel patina, strong gold finish, and a few mild dings.