November 7-8, 2018 Edged Weapons, Armor, & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/8/2018
This officer's grade sword features a slightly curved polished steel blade with long etched panels and two partial fullers on each side. The right side is etched with foliate designs, arms motifs, a patriotic shield, American flag, patriotic eagle and an "E PLURIBUS UNUM" banner. The ricasso is etched "Ames Mfg Co/ Chicopee/ Mass" as well as stamped "J.H." on right side and "1862" on left side. The government did not typically buy officer's swords, but this one was a government purchase, as it bears inspection marks. The left side features spiraling scrollwork, flags, arms motifs and a large "U.S.". The gilt brass hilt features a pierced guard with detailed chased flowers and scrolls on both sides. The pommel is chased with a flower surrounded by a wreath. The grip is wrapped with shark skin and decorated with twisted gilt brass wire. Black leather scabbard with gilt brass mounts, the left side of the throat mount stamped with Ames markings. CONDITION: Very good. Blade retains approximately 90% of original polish with some scattered areas of grey spotting and some marks from scabbard. The hilt retains approximately 70-80% original gilt finish. Grip seam has separated but there are no losses. Scabbard is very good with some crazing and cracking to surface, and a few scattered marks from use. Scabbard mounts retain approximately 80-90% original gilt finish with some wear on top two mounts and rings. A very nice, early Civil War officer's sword.