Here is a named dress sword that belonged to Theodore Edward Lyon, a captain in Company E of the 8th New York Volunteers, a unit raised for the war with Spain that never reached the fighting. The 29-inch blade carries floral etching and a long dedication from the Barnard Schools of New York City, dated November 18, 1898, with a second line on the opposite face recording his wartime service. The maker's name, Ridabock & Co. of New York, sits at the base of the blade.

The furniture is deeply sculpted: a hooded horseman on the guard, a fraternal emblem on the langet, an eagle atop a rock with beast heads below it on the pommel, and further beast heads along the D-shaped knuckle bow. The scabbard shows a trophy of arms at the drag, a sentry at guard and another eagle. A fitted case lettered to Captain Lyon accompanies it. North Carolina collectors of identified 1898 pieces get an officer's sword, its case and its dedication together.

Key features

• Presented to Capt. Theodore Edward Lyon, 8th NY Volunteer Infantry
• 29-inch etched blade, inscribed both sides, dated 1898
• Ricasso marked Ridabock & Co., New York
• High relief figures on hilt and scabbard
• Inscribed presentation case included

The sword and its case ship directly to your North Carolina address.