This 2nd Model Virginia Manufactory Sword is now just about 200 years old.  They were made by the State of Virginia between 1806 and 1808 and this one has just come out of the attic.  It is heavily patinaed with the guard and scabbard showing a light, peppery texture to a heavy rust oxide.  Measured along the back of the blade, the blade is 36 inches in length and has two fullers, one large and one small.  It has the typical perforated iron guard and iron back strap.  The wood grip is completely intact but has an age crack running its length.  There is only one round of twisted brass wire left.  The scabbard has the correct throat with the iron stud for mounting on a frog.  About an inch and a half from the tip, there is a strong dent.  It does not interfere when the sword is sheathed.  The dent is abrupt enough that it reminds me of shrapnel damage but it can't talk and I don't know.  The blade is dark with no chips, minimal pitting and as you can tell from the photo, is really quite smooth.   An honest, attic condition, Virginia Manufactory Dragoon Sword.  SOLD!!