US M1850 Foot Officer Sword by Ames

Description

Featuring gilt cast brass hilt of standard pattern with single scroll quillon and knuckle bow attached to the phrygian helmet style pommel; the guard with pierced foliate decoration. Wood grip with shagreen cover, originally wrapped with twisted brass wire, but only a few turns remaining. Broad, slightly curved 30 3/8” single-edged blade with one wide fuller and a shorter narrow fuller at the back edge; etched with foliage, “US”, eagle, stands of arms, and maker “Ames Mfg Co/Chicopee/Mass”. Original brown leather scabbard with brass drag, twin carry bands with rings, and throat stamped “AMES MFG. CO./CHICOPEE/MASS” on the reverse. Hilt retains approximately 25% original gilding, the remainder with pleasing patina. Blade shows wear to the etching, scattered light pitting and age staining, and a few scattered shallow edge nicks. Scabbard leather shows wear and cracks, drag with shallow dents and separated where it meets the leather. A well-used Civil War veteran which likely saw considerable action. Overall length 36 1/4”, not including scabbard.