Civil War Presentation Dagger, Capt. Wm. H. Mitchell, 11th Georgia Volunteers

Story

Captain William H. Mitchell led the 'Gainesville Light Infantry' through the horrors of Gettysburg and the Wilderness. This dagger was likely a private purchase or gift, serving as a symbol of status and survival for a Georgia officer.

Maker / Origin

While the blade and hilt were likely produced by a commercial cutler like Ames or a European exporter, the engraving is the work of a skilled period artisan. These presentation pieces were often commissioned by family or fellow soldiers to honor a promotion or departure for the front.

Condition & Value

The leather scabbard shows significant age-related wear and surface loss, which is expected for a field-used item. The silver plating on the hilt remains largely intact, and the engraving is crisp and legible. Condition is fair to good for its age; the scabbard's fragility reduces the high-end potential slightly.