Very fine conditioned 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 made by this well-known firm. On June 11, 1861 the US Government ordered 3,00 of the Model 1850 Foot Officer’s swords to issue to officers. The contract was never fully fulfilled being cancelled by the Ordnance Department on May 24, 1862 after only 1002 swords were delivered. Only 431 were delivered in 1861.

The blade measures 30½” long, 1” wide, and has a stopped wide fuller 20 ¾” long with an integrated 15 ¾” long narrow fuller. The blade surface is bright with light scattered mottling its entire length against a frosted background.  The etching on the obverse side begins just above the ricasso with the maker’s name in three lines “Made by AMES MFG. CO. / CHICOPEE / MASS.” This is followed by scrollwork and a section of foliate capped by a panoply of flags. This is followed by a spread-winged eagle with “E PLURIBUS UNUM” riband and more foliate.

The reverse side of the blade is decorated with scrollwork and a rather squat “US” followed by 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 inspector’s initials of “GGS.” With “US” above and “1861” below while the reverse is marked with Ames Mfg Co. Chicopee, Mass

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 the 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 complete with brass furniture. Scabbard body is strong. Both plain brass sword 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 dings and dents from age, use and storage.

This inspected and dated Ames Model 1850 foot officer’s sword is rare and desirable!

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