Original U.S. Civil War M1850 Army Staff & Field Officer Sword by Ames Mfg. Co. with Brass Mounted Leather Scabbard
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Original Item: Only One Available. This is a lovely, original condition model 1850 Foot Officer’s Sword with half basket brass hilt decorated with pierced floral decorations, and a custom ordered etched blade. As used by all officers below the rank of major between 1851-1865. This sword was used by both Union and Confederate officers during the American Civil War.
The slightly curved blade of 30 ¼ inches is in good shape, with some lovely etching on the lower two thirds, with U.S. on one side, and the Federal Eagle on the other side. Truly a lovely blade, with a nice aged dark patina and some signs of rust. The etching is still mostly present, but it must be viewed in the light to visualize it completely It is maker marked in the etching near the ricasso:
Ames Mfg. Co.
Chicopee
Mass.
Blade shows signs of multiple contact points with another sword. Whether this damage dates from the American Civil War, or from child's play in the decades beyond the Civil War can be speculated.
The perforated hilt guard is in very good condition, still showing the original gilt finish present in the recessed areas. The grip is wrapped in leather bound with twisted brass wire, though we suspect that it was redone at some point after the Civil War. The blade, grip, and guard, have a slight wobble, which could possibly be remedied. This is something we will leave for the next owner to determine doing so, as we are offering the sword in “as found” condition. The brass guard and pommel have developed a very pleasant rich patina over the years.
Condition of the sword is good, and it is offered with the original leather scabbard, which shows signs of honest wear and storage age, with loss of most of the gilt wash on the fittings. The leather definitely shows some areas that have bent, and the fittings had been glued in place, as the original securing hardware is no longer functional. The glue has since let go, so the throat and hanger ring fittings are a bit loose on the scabbard.
A great service used Civil War Officer's sword, ready to display!
Approximate Dimensions:
Blade Length: 30 ¼"
Blade Style: Single Edged Slightly Curved with double Fullers
Overall length: 36“
Basket dimensions: 4 ¼" width x 5” length
Scabbard length: 31 ¼”
The Model 1850 Army Staff and Field Officer's Sword was carried by all members of staff departments, Field Grade officers of Artillery and Infantry, Company Grade Officers of Light Artillery, Staff Officers and Aides-de-Camp between 1850 and 1872. It was based on a French pattern. Though other swords were by regulation allowed, this model was by far the most popular sword carried by officers during the American Civil War. The Staff and Field Officers' Sword is distinct from the Model 1850 Army Foot Officer's Sword.
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