Presentation Civil War Swords of this caliber are still at the top of the food chain in terms of desirability. This is the rare pattern Castle Hilt marketed by Schuyler, Hartley and Graham. Although its not one of the mint, high-priced examples, it still retains a lot of original finish to include 60 - 75% gilt to the hilt and generous amounts to the mounts and a bit on the drag. The grip is German Silver with about 60% silver-plate over the top. The sides of the grip still show the plating but the bottom has yellowed as the brass alloy is coming through. The scabbard is also German Silver and is free of dents. The blade is very fine and could be carefully cleaned to excellent, but I haven't touched it as it retains some gold gilt about the etching. It is etched on the right side with a bold " For the Union and the Constitution". It is inscribed on the top mount, "Presented to Lt. A. N. Flint by the members Co. G, 8th Vt. Vols. as a token of their esteem". Flint had some great history with the 8th, which was stationed in Louisiana and took some strong casualties about the state. In the summer of 1864, they sailed back to the Eastern Theater and saw heavy fighting and casualties at Opequan and Cedar Creek. A fine sword with decent history.