The eagle head pommel retaining original gilt sword knot above an ivory grip and a shell guard having seventeen stars enclosing an eagle and anchor, all typical of the Philadelphia style; the blade, elaborately etched on both sides and bearing inscription, "In Testimony of the intrepidity and valor of Midshipman John Tayloe of the United States Frigate Constitution in action and capture of the British Frigate Guerriere, 19 August 12"; the leather covered wood scabbard with cast gilt nautical and Classical mounts.