Damascus Presentation Imperial 1889 Guard Sword. Brass hilt section has a family crest on the pommel. Dark deer-horn grip has its triple wire wrap intact. Has the guard star on the obverse. The handguard features the Imperial eagle with crown. Scabbard retains 85% of its original black paint and shows some age "crazing". Has its original portepee in correct "tie". "Maiden hair" Damascus blade is marked on the spine "M. Neumann, Hoflieferant, Berlin". Approximately 5" from the top of the hilt are two panels on the obverse and reverse with the obverse panel reading, "V. Kirchbach/V. Westernhagen 1907". Written on the reverse within a panel at the top is "Furchtlos und Treu", which translates to "Fearless and true". This is raised in gold. About 5 or 6" beneath these panels are raised gold ornate floral panels with crossed swords on the obverse and a shield with helmet, axe, and spear on the reverse. The spine of the blade is gilted. Unfortunately, there is some light sharpening to the cutting edge, but this does not detract from the beauty of this piece. Has its original buffer pad intact. Exc. (12353) $2,695.