What's it worth? Appraisal of Civil War officer's sword

Raymond asks:

This appears to be an officers Sword. The leather straps are fragile but still in tact with the brass hooks. Overall weight of the sword, case, and leather straps is 2 lbs 12 oz. The weight of the sword alone is 1lb 6 oz. The blade length is 31” with a 5-3/4” handle. Overall length in the case is 37-3/4” long. The handle is leather with wire twisted around 13 times. The marking on the blade is G.W. Simmons & Co. Boston Mass. The blade has a great design with US logo and cavalry design as shown in the photos. Nice patina.

AW says: This is a wonderful sword in excellent condition. It’s a “Staff/Field Officer’s sword”. No worry about the leather deteriorating, it’s expected, the condition of the blade and patina are far more important. Civil War period items have always been in high demand, but in the last 5 years, investors with a bit of capital are looking for alternatives to stocks/bonds etc. so historic Americana has risen in value dramatically.

Retail value: $2,500-$3000

Wholesale value: $1,500

Quick sale value: $1,000

Keywords: Staff & Field Officers civil war sword, militaria, G.W. Simmons, Boston MA.