US M1860 Naval Cutlass and Scabbard

Description

Most US swords of the 19^th C were patterned after earlier French models, and the US Model 1860 Naval Cutlass was patterned after the French M1833 Cutlass. It was a robust weapon designed for the close quarters fighting expected on ships of the era, and was in service from the beginning of the Civil War until shortly before WWII. Over 25,000 of these were made, most by N. P. Ames of Chicopee, Massachusetts. This example with the typical brass hilt, featuring large bowl guard riveted with 10 rivets to the knuckle bow. Phrygian helmet style pommel stamped with “D.R.” (R only partially visible), for Ames inspector Daniel Reynolds. Later worn alloy grip, indicating it was likely refurbished and reissued. The inside of the quillon is stamped “10M/975”, which indicates a serial number of 10,975 (10M for 10,000, plus 975). Curved singled-edged 25 3/4” blade with broad unstopped single fuller. The blade is worn and cleaned, with the typical Ames markings no longer visible, though it was likely made in 1862. Original leather scabbard (leather flaking) with lapped seam on the reverse secured by copper rivets and washers; brass frog button. The typical large copper through-rivet securing the end of the scabbard has been replaced with a smooth brass drag. Old leather belt frog. Overall length 31 1/4”, not including scabbard. A few shallow dents in the guard and pommel; guard slightly loose.