Excellent conditioned Model 1850 foot officer’s sword made by the Ames Manufacturing Company of Chicopee, Massachusetts complete with its matching leather scabbard.

The blade measures 30.25” long and is 1.00 wide. It has a stopped wide central fuller 20.00 inches long and a 16.00 inch long narrow fuller along the top edge. The blade surface is bright with light scattered rub marks near the point. The blade edge has one small nick. The etched decoration on the blade is frosty and strong

The obverse etching begins just above the ricasso with the maker’s name in three lines “AMES MFG. CO. / CHICOPEE / MASS.” This is followed by scrollwork and a section of foliate capped by a panoply of arms. This is followed by a spread-winged eagle with an “E PLURIBUS UNUM” riband and more foliate.

The reverse etching begins with scrollwork followed by a rather squat “US” then more scrollwork and foliate with a cannon barrel, shield and bugle followed by more foliate.

Both sides of the ricasso are marked. The obverse side has “U.S.” over the inspector’s initials of “J. H.” over “1861.” The reverse ricasso is marked with the Ames name on a scroll. The leather washer is present and complete.

The detailed brass hilt features a cast guard and knucklebow with a delicately cast single-band with cutout oak leaf scrolls and acanthus leaves. Brass hilt is tight to the blade tang. Features a grooved, center-swelled wooden handle wrapped in high quality, dark sharkskin. Skin is tightly bound with twisted brass wire around the handle. Normal seam is evident on the side of the grip. Brass pommel is decorated with ornate scrollwork of laurel leaves and features a tiered domed cap. Casting on the hilt and pommel is well executed. Overall the hilt is in excellent condition.

The original black leather scabbard is complete with brass furniture. Scabbard body is strong and exhibits some light scattered crazing. Scabbard has no weak areas. Both the plain brass mounts and throat are present as are both rings. Reverse of throat has AMES MFG CO. / CHICOPEE / MASS.” in three lines. All brass furniture wears a semi-bright patina. Drag has normal scratches as well as some small dings and dents from age, use and storage.

Inspected Model 1850 Foot Officer’s swords are rare and this one is in excellent condition.  [AD]

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