This is a Model 1860 Naval Cutlass manufactured by Ames during the Civil War. The cutlass has an overall length of 31 3/4". The slightly curved blade measures 26" long, has a width of 1 3/16" at the ricasso, and has a 5/16" spine. The blade has a 19" unstopped fuller. The blade shows traces of the original polish, mostly exhibiting a dull steel patina. The edge has one nick, but no other damage. The obverse side of the blade is stamped only with the date of 1862, the reverse side is stamped Manf' by/AMES MFg. Co./CHICOPEE/MASS. The brass guard and pommel cap have a matching muted golden patina. There are a couple of small dents in the guard. Stamped into the top of the guard on the inside is "9M/737". There is no leather throat washer on the blade. The grip still has the leather wrap in place, as well as the twisted double strand brass wire. The wire is still tight on the grip, but has been repaired in one spot on the reverse side, and is loose at the pommel cap. The leather scabbard that goes with this sword is still reporting for duty, most of the time they are missing. The leather shows some crazing, and some shrinkage has occurred over the years. When the cutlass is sheathed, about 3/4" of the blade extends from the scabbard. All of the rivets along the seam are still present, and what little stitching was used on the scabbard is still present and strong. This is a good looking example of a US Naval cutlass with scabbard used during the American Civil War.

Item # AA3300

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