I think curvature of the blade can be attributed (at least in some cases) to an optical illusion. Looking back on photos of swords I owned, I surprised myself by finding that some of these swords did appear to have curved blades.........but they really didn't (I've never owned one with a curved blade; I've likewise never owned a mid-19th century one either).  For example, here's a sword that appears to have a curved blade, based solely on this photo: But, in this next photo of it, it's as straight as an arrow (which is correct):

Thank you for telling what the last is ribbon is.

Regarding the curved blade...this is actually the first time I've read about curved blades used in the 20th century. I always believed this to be a 19th century thing, along with a wider blade.   I will say, for a data point, I own a sword that was purchased in 1920 by a medical doctor Captain (O-6). I used this as a personal sword during my career as well. It has a straight blade - no curve at all. So....? 

It’s a cool jacket… most guys will say it’s cool… most won’t know about Foss… or if they do, they’ll assume a tribute jacket… the guys were just letting you know about the details and age..    saddle soap will be fine on this hide..   wear it good health… it’s a nice G1

Hi Mikie, thanks for that info.  I'll send you a PM, I'd love to connect with that person as well if possible.  I might just have to build another wall hanger to go with my M1 /m14 hybird.  

An interesting short film on the airfield. RAF Silloth was the setting for the Tyrene Power / Betty Grable film  A Yank in the RAF in 1941.

Both of my WWI M1852s.   my great-uncle's pictured here,  have blades that are noticeably curved when compared to the scabbards.    I wonder if the curved blade puts a strain on the straight scabbard over time.    Thanks for posting all your research on the early M1852s and their predecessors.   

Congrats, keep on hunting.

Well done, keep hunting.

. Before and after shots.   The first photo shows a Jeep sat waiting to be hit by the shock-waves of one of the 1950's nuclear bomb tests, the second photo shows the remains of the engine, gear-box and transfer case after the explosion.        Norman D. Landing, Forum Normandy Correspondent, April 22 2O25.   ….