The exquisite sword shown here is known as the Dolphin Head, taking its name from the classic style and design of the pommel. This sword, made by Robert Mole & Sons, is a pattern made especially for Confederate Naval officers. Mole’s mark is stamped clearly into the spine. It was one of the few that ran through the blockade into Charleston, South Carolina and it is clearly stamped on the ricasso Courtney & Tennent Charleston, S.C.

It was during the War Between the States that Courtney & Tennent supplied buttons, militaria and swords of various patterns to the Confederate Navy. Courtney & Tennent did not manufacture arms; instead they purchased military supplies wholesale from England and resold them at retail in Charleston, South Carolina.