In good condition, an Ames US Civil War m1860 / m1861 Cutlass, dated 1862
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Commonly referred to as the model 1860, is actually the m1861 US Navy Cutlass with brass “soup ladle” cup guard, modelled on the French m1833 cutlass. Made by the Ames Manufacturing Company, Chicopee, Massachusetts and marked “AMES MFG CO / CHICOPEE MASS” to the blade’s forte, plus “USN D.R. 1862” to the obverse.
The plain curved 26 inch blade is in good condition and firm in the hilt. The bowl shaped brass guard / hilt is a little aged / worn but good. The ribbed leather grip is in good condition with twisted grip wire bindings in place, though a little astray in places. The original leather with brass fittings scabbard is aged and worn, plus has shrunk a little due to dryness; as a result, the cutlass no longer fully sheathes (see photos).
Great early US Civil War example in well above average example, well worth £800. Please quote item reference AJ37. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box?
