Hi William,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

These are dress sabers, made in Toledo, Spain in the late 19th Century. The stamp on one of them is for the "Artillería Fábrica de Toledo," a Spanish state-run arms and sword manufacturer; it doesn't indicate this was used by artillerymen. They resemble 19th-century European or American military swords, particularly infantry officer sabers or short sabers used for parade/dress, which is further confirmed by the shape of the brass hilts with a knuckle guard and curved blades are typical of ceremonial sabers. Additionally the blades and hilts look well-preserved, suggesting they were more likely used for dress or presentation, not combat.

Swords are frequently passed down in families. There were thousands of swords made in Toledo in the late 19th Century and a good many survive, so these are generally not considered rare. At auctions recently, comparable swords have sold for $200-300 each; having a pair is worth slightly more than double that: $500-700.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

Two Spanish steel and brass dress sabers
made in Toledo, one marked "Artillería Fábrica de Toledo," the other dated 1885 on the blade.
Each with cast brass handle with D-shaped knuckle guard, striated grip and curved crossguard, the ricasso of one stamped "Artillería Fábrica de Toledo;" the other with a ricasso inscribed "Arte Mano a Toledo 1885 (Made by Hand in Toledo, 1885", each with a leather scabbard with brass locket and chape (tip).
Each 34 inches long
CONDITION: These appear to be in good condition though there is wear and cracking to the scabbard leathers.
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$ 500-700 for the pair*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia