This sword, Mexican War era, was probably made for an important Massachusetts militia officer with Massachusetts state seal found applied on cross-guard languet and engraved on scabbard below eagle is arm & saber seen on Massachusetts buttons of the era. Hexagonal silver plated, copper grip is unusual with raised relief oak leaves and acorns often seen embroidered on collars of general officers uniforms. A similar example is illustrated in John Hamilton's The Ames Sword Company 1829-1935 on pg 129 with 1847 presentation. This sword is in remarkable condition retaining most of its orig gold gilt and orig finish and luster to blade. SIZE: CONDITION: Very fine overall. 30" double edge blade has 16" etched patriotic panels on either side and etched mark "N P AMES CUTLER SPRINGFIELD" on ricasso. Blade retains much of its orig luster with areas of dark staining as can be seen in photos. Grip is crisp and sharp with only small traces of silver plate now overall chocolate colored copper patina. Knight-head pommel, cross-guard, languet & scabbard retain 95% of their orig gold plate. Scabbard retains crisp, fine etching including 4-1/2" panoply of arms and 2" eagle & shield. 49443-1 JS (6,000-10,000)