US Civil War, M1850 Infantry Officers Sword, Ames Mfg 1851

Original era manufacture. This old sword represents an example of a contract between the US Government and the Ames Sword Company, for 800 Infantry officer pattern swords inApril of 1850. They were to be produced in two lengths, 250 with a 32 inch blade, and 550 with 30 1/2 inch blade. Our example is the shorter model.The blade finish is amazingly clean, with very clear etching on both sides of the blade. There are a few minor nicks in the cutting edge but nothing dreadful, clear US and 1851 markings on the ricasso. The point is sharp, theAmes logo is very clear, however there is a bend in the steel about mid-way down, I think this can be worked out a bit with a little effort.The buff leather blade bumper is present, nice gilded brass guard and pommel cap, fish skin wrapped grip missing most of its wire binding.A nice old sword overall which represents the first official production for the famed 1850 Foot Officers sword, a sword by its date existed for all the years of the Civil War. Needs a scabbard though, Darn It.