This is a rare high grade and high condition Ames saber retailed by Schuyler, Hartley & Graham of New York and featuring a rare embellished hilt with detailed scroll and floral designs as well as classical martial trophies and a spread wing bald eagle and wire and dark shagreen wrapped grip. Less than ten of these sabers are known, and this one is in truly remarkable condition. Another example is shown in "Civil War Cavalry & Artillery Sabers" by John Thillmann. The 35 inch blade is etched in the desirable high grade "spiderweb" style and has the "Ames Mfg Co/Chicopee, Mass" maker mark etched above the right ricasso, "Schuyler Hartley & Graham" retailer mark etched on the spine, and scrolls, an eagle, "E Pluribus Unum", shield, "U.S.", and other intricate designs with frosted backgrounds. The scabbard is bright nickel with gilt brass mounts and floral decoration on the ring bands. The upper band has the "AMES MFG. CO./CHICOPEE/MASS" maker's mark on the reverse. Includes a later letter from Schuyler, Hartley & Graham to the Sharps Rifle Co. in 1877, an envelope from Hartley & Graham to Mr. J.F. Seas of Orrville, Ohio, with postal mark dated August 1884, a Hartley & Graham invoice for a Mr. W.G. Koenig of Newark, NJ, dated October 10, 1885, and additional information on the company and sword. Provenance: The George S. Lewis Jr. Collection

Excellent overall with nearly all of the original gilt, very minor age and storage related wear. The blade is excellent plus and retains beautiful etching, and the gilt hilt has crisp designs. There is some light patina on the scabbard body. Overall, an absolutely extraordinary Civil War officer's saber.