This is a Model 1840 Musicians Sword manufactured by Ames of Chicopee, Massachusetts.The sword measures 34 1/2" overall, with a blade measuring 28". The blade is of a plain, straight, single edge design. The blade still has some of the original bright polish showing through, but is has mostly a steel gray patina. Both sides of the ricasso are stamped, the obverse side reading US/LHK/1864, while the reverse is stamped Made by/AMES MFg/CHICOPE/MASS.There are several nicks along the edge of the blade, some visible and some only felt. The hilt is of cast brass and has turned a mustard yellow patina. The inspectors initials of L.H.K are also found on the right side of the knuckle bow. There is also a sub inspectors stamp of M on the back of the knucklebow where it joins the pommel. The peen remains undisturbed, and the blade remains as tight to the hilt as the day it was made. The leather scabbard has a brass throat and drag, both having a darker patina than the hilt. The stitching on the scabbard is very tight and unbroken. There are no inspector stamps on the throat or drag. The leather is in very good condition, but is weak where the drag attaches. One of the brass pins is missing from the drag. While the sword is sheathed the scabbard is very stable, when the sword is removed the drag needs to be supported. The throat has a long frog stud. For a sword that's 156 years old it is in amazingly good condition.

Item # AA2855

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