For the sword and U.S. Navy collector they don’t get much nicer than this. The sword itself has loads of original bright gilt finish on the brass hilt and the blade has vivid blade etching set off by its original frosting. The grayish rayskin or sharkskin grip wrap is complete and the triple binding wire is firmly in place. The pad is still in place on the underside of the guard. On the obverse, just above the ricasso is etched the Ames company name: “Ames Mfg./ Chicopee / Mass.” Above that a geometric pointed latticework spreads out with leafy edges. An anchor with a superimposed American shield inside a scroll border is above that, followed by an oval of stars, and a display of arms: pikes and spears with lance and banner at center. The reverse features an American eagle perched atop a cannon barrel with sun rays overhead, a fouled anchor with a “USN” in a scroll above, with a knotted floral spray of oak leaves and acorns, with the frosted background tapering into separate rays. The etching is vivid and beautifully set off on both sides by the frosted background. There are just some minor rubs on the lower part of the Ames address and a few gray spots near the blade edge on the lower part of the USN ribbon and fouled anchor.

The scabbard is equally good. The black leather body preserves its excellent finish and, of course, has no bends or creases. The upper mount has the stamped Ames maker’s mark. All three mounts still have lots of the original gilt finish. They have a little more wear to it from handling at the obvious points like the flats of the upper mount, but match the impressive amounts left on the hilt. The cast floral designs, naval ropes, and sea monsters on the mounts and hilt are outstanding in detail and finish.

This is a really top-notch example worthy of any collection. [sr]

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