The French style guard has a 1/2 basket shape and is pierced and chased with floral motifs and "U.S." The pommel has a floral pattern, and twisted wire is wrapped around the shagreen grip. A buff color washer is next to the ricasso which is inspector stamped "J.H." (John Hannis) on the right and "1862" on the left. The 32 1/4 inch blade begins the crisp etching with "Ames Mfg. Co/Chicopee/Mass." From there, a scroll design, a cannon and shield design, an American Eagle, and "U.S." etching with a frosted background and a single fuller. The blued metal scabbard has brass mounts, rings, and drag. "AMES MFG CO./CHICOPEE/ASS" is marked on the upper band. The Model 1850 Staff & Field Officer's Sword was one of the main officer swords of the American Civil War. Provenance: The George S. Lewis Jr. Collection

Very fine exterior with exceptionally crisp etching on the excellent blade, strong frosted backgrounds, bright balance with some minor staining, a mix of aged patina and original gilt finish on the brass hilt and scabbard fittings, and 90% plus of the original blue on the scabbard body which has some light oxidation and storage marks.