The sword has a 29 1/4" double unstopped fuller blade. The blade is etched on the left side with a foiled anchor, U.S.N. banner, and an eagle perched on a cannon, and on the right with a stand of arms, a circle of stars, and an anchor with shield over the Ames markings. The cast brass hilt has "U.S.N." and oak leaf designs, laurels on the pommel, eagle on the quillion, wire wrapped white rayskin grips, and bullion sword knot. The sword is complete with an Ames marked scabbard, black leather with gold plated brass fittings. The suspension bands are cast with raised rope patterns and the drag shaped as a sea serpent. The scabbard throat is engraved; "Presented to/ William H. Palmer/ by his friends of the/ First Baptist Society/ Chelsea, Mass./ Nov. 10th, 1864.".

Very good, with mild spotting and flaking on the blade, etching strong, with a mixed brass patina and mild wear on the grip. Sheath is good, with some light cracking and flaking of the black finish, strong gilt with a fine patina on the exposed brass. From the Will Hoffeld Collection.