Sword Affixed to JFK's Catafalque, which Guarded Kennedy's Coffin in the East Room of the White House.

Sword affixed to President Kennedy's catafalque, elaborately etched with decorative patterns. Directly below the grip, a six-pointed star and the word "Proved" are etched, a requirement for all U. S. military swords signifying that the blade meets the current military specifications. Etched on the verso, below the grip, are the name and logo of the company that made the sword, Hilborn-Hamberger Inc. New York, above which is incised the word "Germany." The white shark skin grip is bound with brass wire and the heavy brass handle is wrapped with an elaborate gold braid, from which hangs a braid-wrapped tassel, known as a sword knot. The sword's blade is encased in a protective black scabbard with elaborate brass fittings and the tip. Measuring as follows; Sheath: 32.5''. Blade: 31''. Hilt: 5.5''. The case accompanying the sword measures 39.5'' x 9".

Following President Kennedy's assassination, Jacqueline Kennedy requested two swords to be displayed on President Kennedy's catafalque and the swords received were from Lt. Henry Hirschy and Officer Jack Cutcomb. The two swords guarded President Kennedy's coffin, in the East Room, for two days, until the Capitol Rotunda was prepared for his lying in state. After President Kennedy's burial, the two swords remained on the catafalque in the East Room for the remaining thirty-day mourning period serving as a representation of President Kennedy's coffin.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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