Here is a fine original example of an Ames, 1862-dated government naval cutlass that would have been carried by U.S. Navy seamen aboard ship during the Civil War. No scabbard. The blade on this boarding cutlass measures 26” long, 1¼” wide at the ricasso and has a flat back with a single, wide, unstopped fuller with a semi-bright sheen. Blade appears to have been lightly cleaned at one time and exhibits scattered pinprick pitting overall with just one tiny edge nick about 9” down from the point.  On the reverse ricasso is the maker’s clear, four-line address within a scroll that reads “MADE BY / AMES MFG Co / CHICOPEE / MASS.”.  The obverse shows a “naval anchor / U.S.N. / P. (proved)  D. R.  / 1862”.  Stampings are very strong.

Brass hilt, often referred to as a ‘soup ladle’ guard, is a rounded cup of heavy sheet brass riveted to the quillon and knucklebow and provides grip protection to the user.  Inside top edge of the quillon is stamped “21M / 728” and is thought to be rack position numbers on the ship.  The boarding cutlass was derived from the French pattern of 1833, often referred to as a “cullere a pot” or more commonly called the “soup ladle” weapon. Cutlass has no leather washer. The carved, wooden handle is wrapped with original black bridle leather that is in excellent condition. As uncommonly found, the grips retain their complete and excellent original double-twisted, brass wire wrap. The high domed brass pommel is of the Phrygian design and exhibits inspector initials “DR” on the brim. All brass has acquired a light pleasing patina overall.

If one seeks a fine Civil War naval cutlass, this early war dated, maker-marked specimen should be part of your collection.