34007. (sword) Rare Antique Model 1852 Pattern United States Revenue Cutter Service Engraved Officers Dress Sword c.1900. Marked to Lt Thaddeus Greaves Crapster. Manufactured by F.J Heiberger & Son, Washington D.C.

A named Very Rare Antique M1852 United States Revenue Cutter Service Engraved Officers Dress Sword of the second type in good to very good condition and dates to about 1900.

The hilt is brass of outstanding workmanship with oak leaves and acorns as well as two fish or serpent heads. The brass pommel has an American Eagle surrounded by thirteen stars cast into it and again is a very detailed piece. The grip is fine quality ray skin with all the brass wires intact. The brass hand guard is also marked “USRCS”. (the first type would have been marked “USRM” and lasted until about 1900 when the name of the service was changed.)

The very slightly curved nickeled steel blade is in very good condition with finely etched designs and is fullered approximately ¾ of it’s length. The blade is straight and has never been abused or sharpened. The obverse ricasso has a proof mark. The blade is beautifully etched with various designs including a ships mast with flag, a fouled anchor with shield, the American Eagle on a cannon, a banner with the letters “USRCS”. The lower obverse is etched with the owner’s name “T.G. CRAPSTER”.

The blade maintains strong integrity, decorative engraving and shows moderate patina. The handle has minor to moderate wear on the handle wrap and scabbard. Blades such as this are exceedingly rare as the Revenue Cutter Service was exceedingly small, until it was merged with the Life Saving Service to form the United States Coast Guard in 1915. The overall length of the sword measures 33 ¼”. Note the scabbard appears to have 2 period correct leather repairs and one later glue repair at the foot. The sword measures ¾” in width and is prior to the early 1900 change making the swords straight.

Sword is complete with its black leather scabbard with ornate brass mounts. The scabbard is regulation with brass mounts, with ring bands in the form of knotted cable holding the sling rings on the upper and middle mounts and a sea-serpent coming around the edges of the drag.

Thaddeus Greaves Crapster was a “Coast Guard’s Man” ! He served an unusually long career of 40 years, enlisting in the Revenue Cutter Service in 1901 and serving until his death in the Coast Guard in 1941. He likely would have attained the rank of Admiral had he not passed away as World War II was beginning. A rare piece. (VG+). $5,400.

Thanks to Historian Richard Boonisar and David Buie (Tarrytown History) for the below service history of Lieutenant (later Commander) Crapster:

Thaddeus Greaves Crapster was born May 25, 1878 in Taneytown, Maryland and enlisted in The U.S. Revenue Cutter Service as a Cadet School of Instruction in 1901.

Crapster’s skill and leadership earned him steady promotions, and he quickly became known for his diligence and expertise in maritime operations. His work involved complex and often dangerous missions, from combating smuggling to aiding distressed ships.

By 1915, the Revenue Cutter Service had merged with the U.S. Life-Saving Service to form the modern United States Coast Guard. This new organization retained the dual mission of law enforcement and maritime safety while taking on greater national defense responsibilities. Crapster continued to rise through the ranks, and in the teens he became an Instructor at the United States Coast Guard Academy.

After his time at the Academy, Crapster returned to active duty, assuming increasingly essential positions. By 1930, he had become the commanding officer of the USCGC Mendota, a Coast Guard cutter stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. The Mendota was essential in Coast Guard operations, enforcing maritime laws, conducting search and rescue missions, and maintaining navigational safety along the Eastern Seaboard.

A series of high-profile and challenging rescue missions marked Captain Crapster’s service in the U.S. Coast Guard, and his leadership was integral to the success of many operations. During his time as commanding officer, he consistently displayed a deep understanding of maritime operations and the ability to remain calm under pressure, especially during critical missions.

The rescue of the Aliakmon was one of many under his command, where his experience was key to orchestrating safe and efficient operations. The Mendota, a buoy tender, played a vital role in ensuring the operational readiness of vital navigational aids during this period. Captain Crapster’s leadership helped secure the vessel’s capabilities, which were always at their peak. Crucial decisions he made in adverse weather and high-pressure scenarios ensured the successful execution of rescue missions, saving ships and lives.

This specific mission in December 1939, where he successfully freed the grounded Greek steamship Aliakmon, highlights his technical skill and leadership. The Aliakmon, valued at $ 200,000, was a significant asset, and this mission underscored the importance of the Coast Guard’s role in safeguarding maritime commerce during peacetime. Even though the initial attempt by the Sebago failed, Captain Crapster’s timely intervention showcased his quick thinking and perseverance. His leadership and the successful outcome of this mission showed the Coast Guard’s commitment to protecting maritime assets and ensuring the smooth operation of commerce.

Captain Crapster’s leadership extended beyond individual rescues. His commitment to the mission of the Coast Guard was evident in his emphasis on crew readiness, training, and maintaining the highest operational standards. He understood that the safety of his crew and the vessels they assisted relied on preparation, trust, and decisiveness, making him an exceptional leader.

Captain Crapster continued to serve with distinction until his death. His decades of service saw the Coast Guard evolve from a small law enforcement agency into a key branch of the U.S. military and homeland security apparatus. During this period, [Detail the key milestones or changes in the Coast Guard during this period]. His leadership and contributions helped shape the service into what it is today, leaving a legacy that continues to influence the Coast Guard’s mission and operations.

Crapster passed away on July 25, 1941, in Norfolk, Virginia, at 63. His career impacted the Coast Guard, particularly in officer training and maritime law enforcement. His emphasis on crew readiness, training, and maintaining the highest operational standards set a benchmark for future leaders. His dedication to the mission of the Coast Guard and his commitment to preparation, trust, and decisiveness made him an exceptional leader. They buried him in Arlington National Cemetery, a fitting final resting place for a man who dedicated his life to serving his country at sea.

Captain Thaddeus Greaves Crapster’s life and career are a testament to the dedication and bravery of the men and women of the United States Coast Guard. From his early days as a cadet in the Revenue Cutter Service to his leadership at the Coast Guard Academy and his command of the USCGC Mendota, he exemplified the highest ideals of service. His contributions to maritime safety, national security, and officer training helped lay the foundation for the modern Coast Guard, ensuring that future generations would be prepared to protect and serve with honor. “

His list of appointments and assignments is as follows:

Cadet School of Instruction 20 May 1901

3rd lieutenant: 23 May 1904

2nd Lieutenant: 16 April 1905

1st lieutenant: 19 June 1911

Lt. Commander: 19 Jan. 1922

Commander: 1 July 1926

Captain: 22 Jan. 1930

Died:           July 25, 1941 (age 63)

Assignments:

“USRC Seminole” 1904-1906 Wilmington N.C.

“USRC Chase” 1907 (School of Instruction)

“USRC Itasca” 1907 (School of Instruction)

“USRC Rush” 1911 (Alaska)

“USRC Onondaga” 1912-?

U.S.C.G. Academy 1914-1919 (Instructor)

“USCGC Ossipee” 1919-1922 Portland Maine

Naval War College 1923-1924

Headquarters USCG 1925

“USCGC Seneca” 1926-1929 (Commander) New York

“USCGC Mendota” 1929-1931 (Commander) Norfolk Va.

US Destroyer Force New London CT. 1932 (Commander)

Inspector Eastern Area 1933-1934

Head of Personal 1935-1936 Headquarters D.C

Norfolk Va. District Commander 1937-1941