AMES M1850 FOOT OFFICER’S SWORD WITH SCABBARD

$3,500.00 SOLD

Quantity Available: None

Item Code: 172-4274

Presented here is a fine, original Civil War Model 1850 foot officer’s sword made by the Ames Manufacturing Company of Chicopee, Massachusetts. Complete with its matching leather scabbard, the sword is one of the high-grade edged weapons the firm made for private purchase and for some government contracts. Crafted workmanship is exhibited on the blades of these weapons and they are more than equal to those of the best European sword makers of the time.

This handsome, regulation, infantry officer’s sword and scabbard are in very good condition. Crafted from high-grade steel, the blade measures 30½” long, 1” wide, and has a stopped wide fuller 21” long with an integrated 14” long narrow fuller. The blade surface shines like a polished mirror and the etching is beautifully frosty in appearance. The etching on the obverse side begins just above the ricasso with a clamshell and linear decoration. This is followed by a US shield and cannons with a section of foliate above it. This is followed by a block “US” and panoply of flags followed by foliate and acorns.

Blade reverse ricasso has the maker’s name that reads “Ames Mfg. Co / Chicopee / Mass.” in finely etched script. Some of the lettering has faded from age and is affected by the only spot of mottling found on the blade. The etched decoration begins above the maker’s name with spears, guidons and shields followed by foliate, panoply of flags, spread-winged eagle, riband with “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and more foliate. Blade edge has a single nick near point. Original leather washer is strong and secure under the guard at the base of the ricasso.

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, light colored sharkskin. Skin is tightly bound with double-twisted brass wire around the handle. Normal seam is evident on the reverse side of the handle. Grips are original and in good condition. 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. Much gilt remains on the hilt.

The original black leather scabbard is a complete specimen with brass furniture. Scabbard body is strong and exhibits a nice surface finish. Both plain brass sword mounts and throat are present with both rings. Reverse of throat has AMES MFG CO. / CHICOPEE / MASS.” in three lines. All brass furniture wears a bright patina. Drag has normal scratches and rubbing from age and storage.

This original Ames Model 1850 foot officer’s sword is a fine example of a Civil War officer’s edged weapon.   [ad]

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