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How to Care for Antique Civil War Swords

A Civil War sword, whether a curved cavalry saber, an artillery officer's short sword or an engraved presentation sword, can be valuable links to that important time in American history. However, collectors should handle and preserve them with care to avoid damaging them. Proceed with caution when cleaning or preserving Civil War swords. If uncertain about any step in the process, consult a professional.

Things You'll Need

Ammonia
Light penetrating oil
Leather preservative
Soft cloth
Cotton swabs
Soft scouring pad
Conservator's wax

Instructions

Assess the Condition
- 1
  Check the steel blade to see whether rust is present, and if so, whether it is active or inactive. Active rust is still degrading or pitting the steel. Inactive rust has ceased to harm the metal and usually is dark brown.
- 2
  Check the hilt, hand-guard and grip for wear and patina (green or brownish aging on brass).
- 3
  Determine the level of care the sword requires. Attempt only to preserve the sword. Never attempt to restore a sword to its original condition, as that would destroy its value as an antique. Do not attempt to remove any patina or inactive rust; only preserve those conditions. Remove active rust carefully.
Prepare Work Area and Begin Cleaning
- 4
  Prepare a clean, flat surface upon which to lay the sword for cleaning. The surface should be long enough to accommodate the blade,; however, the hilt and grip should hang off the edge.
- 5
  Anchor the blade with wooden-jawed vises or rubber-tipped alligator clips. If you are using metal-jawed vises, affix one-half-inch thick leather to the jaws to avoid scarring the blade.
- 6
  Apply a coating of penetrating oil to blades that have no active rust. Let the oil sit for a few moments, then remove it with a soft cloth.
- 7
  Remove active rust with a soft abrasive material, such as a copper scouring pad or brass wire brush. You may use steel wool pads no coarser than 000, but only on blades with no engraving or ornamentation. Apply penetrating oil first and let it sit, perhaps for several hours on heavily rusted areas. Use the scouring material lightly in circular motions to remove rust. Always start in a small test area to check results. Work in only small areas at a time.
- 8
  Apply a 60/40 solution of ammonia and water to brass areas of the hilt and guard that have patina. Do not remove the patina. Do not attempt to restore leather sections on the grip. Rather, apply leather preservative with a cotton swab.
- 9
  Prepare the sword for storage by applying a coating of conservator's wax to the blade. This is better than oil as a final step, because dust will not cause the wax to degrade.

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