Superb and Historic Staff and Field Officers' Sword Presented to Captain William W. McKim. 
31-inch slightly curved blade. IRON PROOF on the back of the blade. The blade's reserve is etched with ornate spread-wing eagle with shield. The obverse is etched with a US and foliate scroll. Unusual gilded Gold hilt with half-basket guard piece with an eagle perched on a shield. Gilded scabbard with etching and ornate gilded mounts. Inscribed on scabbard upper mount PRESENTED / TO / CAPT. WM W. MCKIM / ASSISTANT / QUARTERMASTER U.S.A. / BY / NATHL MCKAY / OF BOSTON / MAY 10TH AD 1862.
Note: According to History of the Military Company of the Massachusetts, Capt. William W. McKim was commissioned by President Lincoln, assistant quartermaster, United States Volunteers, with rank of captain, Aug. 3, 1861, and was transferred to the regular army, same rank and corps, July 6, 1864. He was on duty at Boston as chief quartermaster, U.S.A., for the New England States, except Vermont and Connecticut, from August, 1861, to August, 1864, equipping United States troops, providing quarters and all supplies pertaining to the quartermaster's department, transporting troops and supplies, constructing barracks and hospitals, and in charge of all details not especially assigned to any other corps of the army..........He was brevetted major, lieutenant-colonel, and colonel, U.S.A., March 13, 1865, " for faithful and meritorious services during the war," having been constantly employed, without a leave of absence, charged with important and arduous duties, including financial disbursements of many millions of dollars. He resigned March 8, 1866.

Condition: Fine to excellent. The blade and etching are bright with minor spotting near tip and etching area (possibly from storage). The hilt retains 95% of the gilt. Grip and wrapping excellent. The scabbard is clean with no visible dents, just tarnish and turning from age. Light spotting, scratches and frosting. A few scuffs and one minor bump near drag.