In recognition of his victory at Lexington, MO the women of New Orleans presented Price with this sword and scabbard, reputed to be the finest Confederate sword in existence. The $1,000 purchase price was raised by public subscription with no single donation allowed above $1.00. On the hilt are the state shields of Missouri and Louisiana. The ivory grip is carved to resemble a corncob, while other parts of the sword replicate the forms of tobacco leaf, cotton boil, and hemp stalk. The blade carries the motto: Ense er Virtte per aspera ad alta (By the Means of the sword and by means of courage through difficulties to heaven).
The field glasses were presented to Price by a lady of Memphis, Tennessee on January 1, 1863.
Both artifacts can be found at The Museum of the Confederacy in Richmond, VA
Pictures by Jim Bearden
