This Model 1850 foot officer’s sword was made by the Ames Manufacturing Company of Chicopee, Massachusetts and is complete with its matching leather scabbard. This 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 made by the best European sword makers of the time.

This regulation infantry officer’s sword and scabbard is in excellent condition. Crafted from high-grade steel, the blade measures 30.50 inches long x 1.00 inch wide, and has a stopped wide fuller 21,00 inches long with no narrow fuller. The blade surface shines like a polished mirror with some mottling at the point. The etching is beautifully done and is a bit frosty in appearance. Blade edge has no nicks. Original leather washer is strong and secure under the guard at the base of the ricasso.

The etching on the obverse side has the maker’s name that reads “Ames Mfg. Co / Chicopee / Mass.” in finely etched script in three lines. The etched decoration begins above the maker’s name with a drum, cannon barrel and foliate followed by a panoply of flags, a spread-winged eagle and riband with “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and more foliate.

Blade reverse etching begins just above the ricasso with a linear decoration followed by foliate, a block “US,” intertwined foliate with spears, flags and a cannon barrel followed by more foliate.

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 complete with brass furniture. Scabbard body is strong and exhibits a dull slightly crazed 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 semi-bright patina with some light discoloration from age and storage. Drag has normal scratches and rubbing and exhibits the same finish as the mounts.

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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