The sword that began my collection: a Non Comissioned Officer's sword, circa 1850. Somebody was trying to unload it at an antique store, and I scooped it up for a mere $75. Some interesting things to note: the grip is made of bone, and the number 23 is etched on the hilt side of the cross guard - I have a rough idea of what it could mean, but nothing concrete. Ironic that I should end up with a piece displaying the number 23: I was born on the 23rd, my favorite number has always been 23, and my favorite basketball player is Pete Maravich (he wore #23).

My favorite part of this particular sword is the pommel. It's artistic stylings are so subtle that it's almost forgettable, but without it I get the feeling the piece wouldn't seem whole. The cross guard also has a nice scrolling design, and I believe, from looking in several different books, that the bumps on the ends of the guard are not the norm for most NCO swords.

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