This is an authentic United States Military Academy (USMA) West Point cadet sword, specifically the regulation pattern introduced in 1922. It features the distinctive cross-guard emblem of the USMA & a brass hilt with the characteristic Spartan helmet logo and "Duty, Honor, Country" motto.
Description:
The hilt features a detailed cast brass guard with a silver-colored grip designed to simulate wire wrapping.
a). Central Emblem - The oval cartouche depicts the Greek helmet of Athena (or Minerva), a classical symbol representing wisdom and strategic warfare.
b). Banner Text - Arcing over the top of the helmet is the legendary West Point motto: "DUTY • HONOR • COUNTRY".
c). Vertical Scroll Text - Intersecting behind the helmet is a sword and scroll bearing the text "WEST POINT", the Roman numerals "MDCCCII" (1802) celebrating the year the academy was founded, and "USMA".
History:
Prior to 1922, West Point cadet swords featured a more generic Old English script monogram "M.A." (Military Academy). To uniquely distinguish official academy swords from those used by civilian military schools, the design was updated to incorporate the official USMA Coat of Arms details. Early versions of this 1922 pattern initially featured the helmet facing to the observer's right (heraldic sinister), but it was subsequently corrected to face to the left (heraldic dexter). This configuration remains the official standard pattern still worn by West Point cadets for ceremonies and graduations today.
