Original Argentina Pre-WWI Era Model 1898 Artillery Sword and Scabbard with Frog by Santa Barbara of Toledo, Spain

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a fantastic example of a Spanish export, Argentinian M1898 Artillery Sword, made by a lesser known company, Santa Barbara of Toledo, Spain. Despite the invention of machine guns and rapid firing artillery, swords were still issued.

Between 1880 and 1930, the Argentine Army sought to become a professional force without active involvement in politics, even though many a political figure -President Julio Argentino Roca, for example- benefitted from a past military career. The Army prevented the fall of the government in a number of Radical-led uprisings. Meanwhile, the military in general and the Army, in particular, contributed to developing Argentina's unsettled southern frontier and its nascent industrial complex.

The main foreign influence during this period was, by and large, the Prussian (and then German) doctrine. Partly because of that, during both World Wars most of the officers supported the Germans, more or less openly and their weapons and equipment reflected that.

This is a fine Spanish-made sword and is offered in great condition. The sword is of complete steel construction with a steel blade, 'D' guard, and grip. The sword was manufactured by Santa Barbara of Toledo and is marked on the ricasso with their logo, a gear with a sword over it with S B to the sides. The spine is marked SPAIN. The other side of the ricasso is marked with an unfamiliar sword marking. There aren’t many other markings we could find. The hilt has some heavy oxidation as shown.

The plated steel scabbard is in fair condition and retains the majority of its plating. It is attached to a leather frog which is in fair condition and complements the set well. 

This is a wonderful example of a seldom seen sword, ready for display!

Specifications:
Blade Length: 26"
Blade Style: Curved Single Edge with Single Wide Fuller
Overall length: 32“
D-Guard: 4"W x 5"L
Scabbard Length: 27 ¼”