The sword has a 33 1/4 inch blade with fullers, scroll, martial, and patriotic etching, including "E PLURIBUS UNUM" on the right and "U.S." on the left, "IRON PROOF" on the spine, and "H.G./HAMLIN" on the right ricasso. The gilt brass hilt includes "US" on the guard, floral amt scroll designs, and a brass wire and shagreen wrapped grip. The browned iron scabbard has gilt brass fitting. Consignor research accompanies the sword as does a custom framed display. Hannibal Gilman Hamlin Jr. (1836-1901) was a military goods merchant in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1862-1865 and advertised "bronze, leather, fish-skin, and gilt scabbard swords" as well as Colt and Remington revolvers, military attire, and tack. His advertisement noted "Fine Presentation Swords always on hand." However, relatively few of his swords survive. His shop was located at 92 West Fourth Street and was damaged by fire in 1863, possibly Confederate sabotage. This sword has been noted as the only known Model 1850 Staff & Field Officer's sword with Hamlin's mark. Other Hamlin swords are the foot officer version and are typically marked "H.G. HAMLIN JR/CINCINNATI. O." It has been theorized that this was Hamlin's personal sword. Given the lack of Jr., it may have been made for his father who died in 1864. The sword is reported to have remained protected in a trunk for over 140 years. Vice President Hannibal Hamlin (1809-1891) was his cousin.

Very good with mostly bright blade with some slight patination and distinct etching, aged patina on the brass, some original gilt finish remaining in the protected areas, some original dark brown finish remaining on the scabbard mixed with dark patina and some oxidation and pitting, gap in the shagreen grip, and generally mild overall wear.