Topographical Engineer- Ames Mod.1839- 3 Branch guard - Preview

A fine example showing all the features on the 3 branch guard example of the M1839 T.E. sword

Manufactured: Springfield, Mass.  Maker: N.P. Ames cutler  Year: 1839 - 1850 but some used through the war  Model: M1839 
Size: 32.5 inch blade  Condition:  

This style has a 3 branch guard joining the knuckle bow as well as a loop branch on the reverse side also attaching to the knuckle bow. The pommel has a cap plugging the pien area. The grip is sharkskin with dragoon twist wire. The ferrule is engraved with acorn & Oak Leaves. There is a star within a star on either side of the quillon. The quill back  blade is etched with arms and armor at the quillon area, some cross hatching, N.P. Ames / Cutler / Springfield. Floral scrolls, a stand of arms with American flags and a Liberty pole, a federal eagle with E. PU ribbon and Oak branch with acorns. The reverse has Oak branch, Caduceus, United States Corps of / Topographical Engineers, Tecumseh with ax and bow. The heavy, browned steel scabbard has a gilt T.E. shield on the obverse and a rectangular plaque with N.P. Ames / Cutler / Springfield. The carry ring bands are quite narrow and the rings are "split rings" similar to a key ring in today's world. 

Figure 01.01.40.1: Obverse of the three branch guard joining the knuckle bow

Figure 01.01.40.2: Scabbard plaques Topographical Engineer (T.E.)
Ames Springfield maker plaque

Figure 01.01.40.3: Ames blade etch

Figure 01.01.40.4: United States Corps of / Topographical Engineers

Figure 01.01.40.5: Tecumseh with ax and bow

Figure 01.01.40.6: Overview

Figure 01.01.40.7: Stand of Arms  /
 Caduceus

Figure 01.01.40.8: Inside view showing plug in pommel cap to conceal pien

Figure 01.01.40.9: Reverse view showing additional small looped branch

Figure 01.01.40.10:  Oversize drag used on these sabers.