This beautiful militia sword bears the early seal of Louisiana, a Pelican feeding her young from the blood of her breast, surmounted by the scales of Justice. This is from the time when her motto was Justice, Union, Confidence, before she was conquered and the motto was changed to Union, Justice, Confidence. The sword has a folding clamshell guard on the reverse that is adorned with a pair of the mythical Phoenix. The Phoenix represents immortality and rebirth. The sword’s quillon is capped by a lion head. The hilt retains all of its original shagreen wrap and double twist brass wire. The entire hilt, grip and all remains as tight as when it was made. The mechanics of the folding clamshell work perfectly.

The sword’s fluted triangle blade is as remarkable as its hilt. Its fire blued blade is highlighted in gilt with panoply or arms, floral patterns and the initials "SHF”. It is still sheathed in its original triangular scabbard, but the leather has been replaced with period leather from another sword. The decorated mounts and drag are heavily gilted. Only the upper mount shows significant loss of gilt, caused by the rubbing of the frog belt attachment, which is too shrunken to put back on the sword without softening, but it accompanies the sword. It would fit it fine, but lifting it over the stud poses a problem. It too, is in excellent condition.

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