December 10-13, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/10/2024
This is an exceptionally rare smallsword for the medical staff of the US Army, first selected for this branch in 1832, but not officially approved and acquired by government contract with Ames two years later; in use until superseded by a new pattern in 1840. Overall length 37 1/2 in.; blade: 30 1/8 in. L x 3/4 in. at ricasso. Blade is elliptical in cross-section and etched over 2/3 of its length with various patriotic & foliate motifs, including American eagles with liberty banners and a central spray of arms with “US” in shield. Maker's name, "N.P. Ames / Cutler / Springfield" is found within an arrow-shaped panel near the guard. Hilt retains 99% of its gilded-brass finish and consists of a flat, half-clamshell guard, D-knuclebow with 16 orbs or strung pearls within an indented panel, urn pommel with similar, "strung-pearl" decoration draped from the pronounced capstan, and 4-sided grip with similar strung pearl or orbs cast in the corners. Gilded-brass scabbard with foliate engraving and raised bands with suspension rings. CONDITION: blade has a pleasing light gray patina; hilt retains nearly all of its original gilded finish; scabbard with a few, tiny dents and retaining most of its original finish.