Boyle & Gamble was a Richmond, Virginia, sword-maker located near the old Virginia Arsenal. They produced a variety of edged weapons for private purchase and, as Boyle, Gamble & McFee, produced edged weapons under Confederate contract. Their swords are highly desirable by collectors.
This example is a Boyle & Gamble staff officer's sword with 29 1/2" blade, etched blade with CSA on one side, floral decorations on both sides of blade, brass guard with CS below a star, assembly numeral "4" stamped on underside of guard, one-piece wood grip with leather wrap and single strand copper wire over the wrap. The scabbard is stiffened leather with brass mounts. Condition of scabbard is exceptional.
Overall condition of this piece is very good. The blade edge was sharpened during the war but the letters "CSA" above the shield are still clear as is nearly all of the etching and the patina of the blade is uniform.