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Ames Civil War
M 1860 Naval Cutlass
5 Star Condition
Presented is an Ames, Civil War, M1860 – 1861 cutlass that is
a near perfect example of this most desirable collector’s sea service edged weapon. In this superb condition, this is a very
rare find, particularly when most of these cutlasses are either missing their scabbard or are being sold with one
which is a replica. The condition of the scabbard is remarkable. It has the expected marks of age, but there are no breaks
or deep cracks. The 43 copper rivets, one larger at the tip, running down the back are all original. There
is one rivet missing at the throat. Its only other fault is the front stud is missing. The knuckle bow has
a flange which accepts an elliptical guard which acts as a hand shield. The curved hand shield is riveted to the flange
and forms a solid half basket guard. The guard, grip, leather covering, and wire wrap are perfect and so is the blade.
FROM THE U.S. NAVY HISTORICAL CENTER: “The
M1841 broadsword wore out its welcome by 1860, when the Navy adopted a new design, patterned after the French naval cutlass. A superior weapon, this model became
standard for the next 80 years.
It had a sturdy, single-edged, slightly-curved blade. The wooden grips covered with leather
and were bound with brass wire. The pommel at the lower end of the handle was of brass, helmet-shaped.”
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Full basket guard in excellent condition
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Tightly wrapped
two strand wire
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Proof and inspectors Mark plus anchor
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Proper
maker’s mark in scroll
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MARKINGS: It is correctly marked with an Anchor/ USN
/ P / D.R /1862 on five lines. Barely visible on the other side of the cutlass, within a scroll,
is stamped Ames Mfg. Co. with Chicopee on three lines. On the back
of the guard at the top is 18M/ 911
CONDITION: The entire hand assembly, guard and grip are in outstanding
original condition with only the most minor superficial marks of age over the past 147 years. The patina of the brass
is pleasing to the eye. The leather is without imperfections and the two strand wire wrap is complete and tight.
The blade and all individual parts are tight and correct. The scabbard is of great value since it is the real McCoy,
and is impossible to find if missing. The blade is near perfect with only one small nick, nine inches from the tip, from
a sharp implement or weapon. The blade has a pleasing silver/grey tone with few dark spots, and only superficial
pitting.
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Original and correctly riveted scabbard with no shrinkage.
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DIMENSIONS: Cutlass 32″ long overall. 26″ blade length
Max width of blade 1 3/16″ Max thickness 5/16″
Fuller 3/4″ W x 18″ L Weight 2
1/4 lbs
This is a superior example of an Ames, Civil War Cutlass and will be appreciated
by those who value only the finest!
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Beautiful blade in excellent condition with only minor spotting and blemishes
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BRIEF HISTORY Ames Mfg. Co.:
The Ames Manufacturing Company, Chicopee, Massachusetts, was founded in 1832 by James Tyler Ames and his brother, Nathan Peabody
Ames. The company manufactured small tools, cotton machinery, swords, cannons, and did casting of bells. They started
production of military contract swords in 1832 with the M1832 foot artillery sword, and ended with the M1906 cavalry saber
in 1906. Ames produced more swords for the American military than any other company before or since, totaling over 200,000
swords in service by the end of the Civil War. In that time, at least ten different manufacturing marks were used on the swords.
A little knowledge of the company history helps place a date range for when each stamp was used. When the company started
producing swords it was led by Nathan P. Ames, and most marks reflected that fact. In 1847, Nathan died and left the company
to his brother James. The markings on the blades were immediately changed from N.P. Ames to Ames Mfg. Co. In 1848, the town
of Cabotville was incorporated into Chicopee, Massachusetts, and the marks were once again changed to reflect this. Blades
dated as late as 1850 may still bear the Cabotville stamp, as the old dies were probably used until they were worn out.
In a much reduced state, they are still in business today. Mostly, from an essay by Mike McWatters
OUR
UNCONDITIONAL GUARANTEE: If not completely satisfied with your purchase it may be returned, if without damage, within
three days of receipt in its original packaging. Return items must be insured for their full value. A prior email authorization
by us for the return is required. Unfortunately, shipping charges are not included in this offer and are non-refundable unless
due to our error.
International buyers
welcome, but inquire first. We have satisfied customers in Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bermuda,
British Virgin Islands, Canada, Chile, China, Czech Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Denmark, Estonia, England, France,
Germany, Greece, Holland, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Martinique, Mexico,
New Zealand, Norway, Nova Scotia, Panama, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Singapore,
Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, USVI and the Eastern Caribbean.
ACCEPTED FORMS OF PAYMENT are Bank wire transfer, cashier’s check,
money order, or personal check in which case the item will be held until cleared. No credit cards or PayPal accepted on this
item.
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Copyright 2009 by Land And Sea Collection™, All Rights Reserved
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