POTD: General Schwarzkopf’s Gold Damascened Star BM
Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! Here we have a spectacular gold damascened Spanish Star BM presented to U.S. Army General H. Norman Schwarzkopf, who led Coalition forces during the 1991 Gulf War liberation of Kuwait. A letter from his daughter Cynthia Schwarzkopf certifies this pistol by serial number as her father’s property.
The Star Model BM features near-full coverage gold damascene engraving with intricate borders and panels containing floral vines. Motifs include an eagle on the left slide, dragon on the right slide, griffin on the dust cover underside, sea beast on the front grip strap, and two songbirds on the rear grip strap. “STAR * CAL.9MM.” is gold inlaid on the left slide.
The trigger, magazine release, thumb safety, pins, and barrel bushing are gold plated. Pearlite grips have gold inlaid medallion inserts – Spanish Civil Guard coat of arms on the left panel and Spanish national coat of arms on the right. The magazines feature continued gold inlay and engraving on floor plates.
This level of embellishment suggests presentation by Spanish authorities or military officials, likely during or after Desert Storm operations. Spain contributed naval forces to the Coalition effort enforcing sanctions against Iraq. General Schwarzkopf’s leadership of Operation Desert Storm made him an international military figure, and such presentations were common recognition of his role.
The fitted presentation case completes this extraordinary tribute to one of America’s most recognized modern military commanders.
Most of our POTDs utilize images from our friends at Rock Island Auction Company, the premier firearms auction in the United States. Take some time to browse their current auctions – who knows, maybe you’ll find a piece of history to take home!
“Gold Damascene Spanish Star Model BM Pistol with Case.” Rock Island Auction, www.rockislandauction.com/detail/4096/1427/gold-damascene-spanish-star-model-bm-pistol-with-case. Accessed 4 Mar. 2026.
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