Ames Model 1832 Short Artillery Sword  Dated 1856 – Civil War Soldier’s Life Museum Collection / SOLD

Description

Ames Model 1832 Short Artillery Sword 

Dated 1856 – Civil War Soldier’s Life Museum Collection 

 

A classic and highly desirable example of the Ames Model 1832 short artillery sword, crisply dated 1856 and representing the pre-war production that saw extensive service throughout the Civil War. The blade bears a clear “U.S. / J.H. / 1856” inspector/date stamp, accompanied by the Ames Manufacturing Company, Chicopee, Mass. marking and museum accession label all remaining strong despite light age toning and scattered surface oxidation consistent with honest use and storage. 

 

The hilt retains an attractive, untouched brass patina, exhibiting the familiar cast “scale” grip with integral eagle pommel, the details still well defined. The crossguard shows appropriate wear with softened edges from handling, yet remains solid and unaltered. The grip’s rivets are intact, and the overall presentation speaks to a sword that has seen period use without abuse. 

 

The accompanying brass-mounted leather scabbard is a particularly pleasing survival, matching well to the sword and displaying a mellow, undisturbed tone. It shows expected handling marks and minor age wear. 

 

Produced in large numbers yet increasingly difficult to find in honest, complete condition, the Model 1832 artillery sword is synonymous with Civil War service, carried not only by artillerymen but issued to infantry and other branches early in the conflict. This example, dated squarely in the critical antebellum buildup, represents the type that would have gone on to see hard wartime use. 

 

Inventory Number: SWO 382