Hi, all. My first post on this board, and an appropriate time considering it's Memorial Day here in the US. Here's a new acquisition as of about three hours ago: an m1913 Imperial German Naval Sword named to Andersen. It's my first naval sword (not counting a British cutlass bayonet), and my first damascus blade. Based on Rick's assessment of the virtually identical sword in this thread -- http://gmic.co.uk/index.php?showtopic=26183 -- I was worried that I wouldn't be able to confirm ownership. That is, until I pulled out the loupe and found "Andersen" on the rounded portion of the nearside lip of the guard. It's has almost been obliterated by rubbing, but it's there. Rick, any thoughts as to the availability of info on Herr Andersen's naval career, or Herr L?we's, for that matter? It must have been a long one judging from the wear on the hilt where the name is inscribed. The pipeback blade features "L?we s/l Andersen" in relief and, while it is in good overall shape, there are stains here and there, and a minor nick or two in the edge. Interestingly, my sword was retailed by the same firm as NJB's in the aforementioned thread: G.B. & S. Anyone know them? The opposite side bears the Kirschbaum knight's head stamp. As I said, I'm new to damascus steel. Can one tell from just looking at it whether it is "genuine" damascus or "damaststahl"? The hilt retains a lot of its fire gilt, and the red and green lion's eyes are intact. There's a chip out of the ivory (bone?) and a few vertical cracks in the grip, the but the wrap wire is intact. The guard spring is strong. The scabbard is minty -- no creases, no dents. The suspension rings even have the original belt hooks attached (sadly, no belts). Photos attached below. Comments, thoughts, recommendations are welcome. Thanks, Mark