This sword is the classic Civil War Federal edged weapon that the U.S. Ordnance Department designated the Musicians' Sword, Model 1840.

The sword is an Ames Manufacturing Company contract sword that is dated 1864. Speculation on the use of musicians' swords is that they started in use during the American Revolution with drummers and fifers. There is the tendency of many to think that the musicians' sword is purely a decoration but that was not the case. Bandsmen did accompany the troops upon the field of battle and if the lines were flanked, they were called upon to defend themselves and this sword was their only means to do so.

This original specimen of the M1840 musicians' sword is a handsome weapon in excellent condition and typical of that carried by Federal musicians and band members. The overall length of the sword is 34.5" with a pewter color steel blade 28" long. The sword has a brass hilt with a single guard. The single-edged blade has a stopped fuller and a ricasso marked on the obverse with "US / AHC / 1864" in three lines. Reverse ricasso is stamped with "Made By /Ames Mfg Co / Chicopee / Mass". Brass hilt, which is tight, features grips with a simulated cast brass wire wrap cover. Knuckle bow has an inspector's mark of "G.W.C" stamped on the reverse of the guard. The thin “washer” is missing.

The scabbard is steel and was “married” to the sword as it was a product of Emmerson & Silver of Trenton, NJ. Very likely could have been done during the Civil War since the Ames leather scabbards were so very easily broken. The scabbard is in good condition with brass throat and drag and does show some wear and dings around the throat. The drag is missing its brass screw but remains tightly attached. The drag has inspector’s markings of "DFM".

A fine example of the Civil War Musicians’ sword.  [jet] [ph:L]

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