This edged weapon is the pre-Civil War style specimen that the U.S. Ordnance Department designated as the Noncommissioned Officer’s Sword, Model 1840. An original early-war piece, this Ames contract NCO sword was produced by their Chicopee, Mass firm. Dated 1861, the sword is in very good condition and features a 32” long, dull gray, straight, single-edged blade. Blade bears a single broad fuller that extends from the ricasso to just near the point or tip. Obverse ricasso displays the three line stamping “AMES MFG Co / CHICOPEE / MASS.” while the reverse ricasso exhibits “US / B. H. /1861.” The cast brass hilt is tight and features an imitation wire-wrapped ribbed grip. Pommel is globular with a capstan-style rivet. Sword is missing its original red felt pad or washer at the hilt. At the point where the knucklebow / quillon crosses the blade there rests a brass cast, double, clam shell-shaped counterguard. Sword blade has acquired a mottled medium gray mellow patina overall. All brass wears an untouched bronze patina.

Sword comes complete with its original, leather scabbard body that exhibits major cracking and crazing of the leather surface. Entire body is supple. Also some scuffing near the hilt area. Brass mount retains the hook attachment for the frog. Brass drag which has accumulated a rich bronze patina is strong and bears the government inspector’s mark of “ADK.”

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