Christopher Roby Manufacturing Company of West Chelmsford, Massachusetts produced high-grade edged weapons for private purchase as well as swords purchased under contract by the U. S. Government for issue to US and State Volunteer Troops. This is a really fine and untouched Roby Foot Officers sword inscribed on the throat, "Presented to Capt. A. J. Clough by his friends of Shirley". Clough was commissioned into Company D. of the 53rd Massachusetts Infantry. He was only in for a few months, being discharged for disability and probably saw no action. However what we have here is a sword that was presented and seldom used. Clough took care of the sword and the same was done through the ages until this day and the care with which it was kept leaves us with an almost mint blade and excellent condition scabbard. The mounts and hilt show 50 - 70% original gold gilt. A nice cleaning and oiling will provide a collector with a really excellent condition Roby to add to his collection. Roby is one of the most popular of Union made Officers Swords and they are seldom found in this exceptional condition.