Coming late to this thread, I just want to note that solid guards did exist before 1850 and hinged ones continued after due to the private purchase system meaning that individuals could choose which type they wanted in defiance of the regulations. Not so relevant with a sergeants sword of course.
Also that scabbard is almost certainly from a cavalry sword, could be a 1796 LC or either of the 1821 patterns (light and heavy had the same blade with different guards in 1821 I believe).
Robert
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