Pre-Civil War US M1852 Naval Officer’s Sword by Ames

Description

The US Navy adopted a new pattern of officer’s sword in early 1852 to replace the M1841
Naval officer’s sword. The 1852 Navy Regulations described this new model, stating “For
All Officers- shall be cut-and-thrust blade, not less than twenty-six inches, nor more than
twenty-nine inches long, half basket hilt, grip white: Scabbards of black leather. Mountings
of yellow gilt; and all as per pattern”. Though naval officers were required to purchase their
own swords, Ames Manufacturing ordered 500 of the new Model 1852 in April of 1852.
This example is apparently one of those 500. It is similar in style to the US Model 1850
Foot Officer’s Sword. It features a gilt brass hilt, with pommel cap showing an American
Eagle surrounded by 13 stars, knuckle bow cast in the form of a dolphin head where it joins
the pommel, and reverse scroll quillon depicting a sea monster. The guard is integrally cast
and pierced, depicting “USN” in a ribbon, surrounded by oak leaves and acorns. Grip
wrapped in fish-skin with brass twisted wire. Slightly curved 29″ blade etched with floral
motif, a fouled anchor, Federal shield, “USN”, and stands of arms; ricasso with very faint
Ames maker markings. Black leather scabbard with brass mounts, consisting of throat with
carry ring and stamped “AMES MFG. CO./CHICOPEE/MASS.” on the reverse, middle carry
band and ring, and drag with a sea serpent; the carry bands with raised knotted ropes. This
pattern sword is still in use by Naval Officers, though the blade has become narrower over
time. This pre-Civil War example with blade 1 1/8″ wide at the ricasso. Very good
condition, the guard with mellow patina. Blade is smooth, with a few shallow edge nicks;
etching worn, but visible. Leather scabbard complete and intact, with minor flaking. Overall
length 34 ½”. Oddly, these early Ames examples have multi-piece hilts with seams on
the knuckle bow and quillon, and the pommel cast integrally with the upper portion of the
knuckle bow. Most examples by other makers have the guard, knuckle bow, and quillon
cast in one piece and the pommel separate. These early Naval Officer’s Swords are far
more scarce than their Army counterparts. Records show that all 500 Ames swords were
delivered between June, 1852 and January, 1853, with all going to naval yards in
Washington, New York, Philadelphia, Norfolk, and Boston.