Patterned after a French design, the Model 1832 was intended to serve as a utility tool as much as a defensive weapon, with a heavy weight blade suitable for chopping brush to build barricades or clear a path for a cannon. Sword measures 25 1/8 inches long overall, with a 19 1/8 inch straight triple fuller blade, bearing the two-line Ames address on one side and "U.S./1855" on the reverse. Single piece brass hilt with "A.D.K." (Andrew D. King) and "R.H.K.W." (Robert Henry Kirkwood Whiteley) inspection initials marked on the guard, scaled grip and American Eagles on the pommel. Includes a brass fitted black leather scabbard, and multi-piece white buff belt, fitted with a two-piece round brass "US" buckle. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Exceptionally fine, blade retains mostly bright surfaces overall with some areas of light pitting. All brass surfaces retain an attractive original golden aged patina. The leather is very fine with minor cracks visible. The belt is also very fine with some light aging.