25 7/8 in. slightly curved single fuller blade, the top of the ricasso marked "U.S.N. / D.R / 1862" with the underside stamped "Made by / AMES MFg Co / CHICOPEE, MASS."; the gilt brass half basket is boldly punched with USN and protects a wooden grip wrapped in leather that is bound with twisted gilt wire; the leather scabbard uses 42 painted brass rivets in its construction and has a brass star applied at the tip.

From a North Carolina private collection. The consignor states this weapon was acquired in 2001 from Ohio dealer Floyd Everhart.

Officer grade cutlasses are nearly impossible to come by in any condition and this one is especially clean and solid.

The blade retains a bright finish with some light blemishes, tiny nicks, and a very slight bend at the tip; the original gilt is nearly intact; wear to leather grip and scabbard; paint losses to rivets.

$4,000 - 8,000