Ames Militia Officer presented to:Capt. J. Helme 1839 - Preview

Silver grip, Engraved brass scabbard, Ames Militia.

Manufactured: Springfield, MA  Maker: N. P. Ames / cutler  Year: 1839  Model: Militia, Cruciform guard 
Size: 31.6 inch blade length  Condition:  

A quite early example of an Ames presentation Militia officer sword. It has a knights head helmet pommel, chain knucklebow, sheet silver over ebony grip with the initial G engraved likely for Gulick Guards. The guard is bow shaped with high relief casting work and fine chasing, the langets are stars and stripes shields also with a bow decorated border. The blade is double edged with a center fuller just as those used on the Model 1832 officer's swords. The etching has N.P. Ames / Cutler / Springfield with foliate, a stand of arms Standing Indian Warrior and more foliate. The reverse is similar with a potted urn, stand of arms and American Eagle with a ribbon reading: Liberty. The sheet brass scabbard was heavily gilded and engraved with an American Eagle with E. Pluribus Unum, a large and detailed stand of arms with Liberty Cap, star decorations, another stand of arms with a ghoulish head on a pole. The presentation reads: Presented to / Capt. John C. Helme / as a token of respect by the members of the / Gulick Guards. / Oct. 1839. It is finished with stars and acorns and oak leaves.The reverse scroll shaped plaque reads:  N.P. Ames / Cutler / Springfield / Mass.

Figure 01.01.74.1: Overview

Figure 01.01.74.2: Shield Langet

Figure 01.01.74.3: Presentation Inscription

Figure 01.01.74.4: Ames scabbard plaque

Figure 01.01.74.5: Top mount, double ring with frog stud

Figure 01.01.74.6: Blade etching

Figure 01.01.74.7: Blade etching

Figure 01.01.74.8: Sheet silver over ebony grip

Figure 01.01.74.9: 

Figure 01.01.74.10:  Scabbard drag