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Unique Form, Solid Silver, Mexican War Presentation Sword, Custom Crafted by Ames in 1847....
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Description
A magnificent American sword awarded to a gallant Mississippi officer.
Unique Form, Solid Silver, Mexican War Presentation Sword, Custom Crafted by Ames in 1847. The reverse of the scabbard, at the throat, bears the inscription, "Made/ For/ H. E. Baldwin/ & Co./ New Orleans/ By/ Ames Mfg Co./ Cabotville/Mass." The Ames records list four swords ordered by Baldwin on September 1, 1847, one of which is simply identified as "Antique," doubtless this sword, at a price of $225. The hilt is absolutely unique, being a detailed copy of an early 17th century Italian "Main Gauche," the basket composed of pierced scrolls. The pommel also reflects this form with silver scrolls and flowers pierced on a dark base. The grip is deeply cast with oak leaves and acorns, with narrow side panels composed of leaf, floral and geometric designs. Affixed to the face of the basket is a 1.75" x 2.5" triangular gold plaque, bearing the following inscription, "To/ Major Alexander B. Bradford/ of the/ 1st Regiment Mississippi Volunteers/ From The/ Citizens of Marshall Co./ Miss." The panel has separated from the basket at the top, and partially peeled back with a small crack, readily restorable by a competent jeweler with the ability to execute laser soldering (we checked). The 31" blade is double edged with a single central fuller, and is etched for 2/3 of its length with floral, scroll and military motifs including eagle with riband and liberty cap, Ames logo on the reverse. The blade is dark gray with some light scattered surface rust, untouched. The silver scabbard, retaining 20% of the original gilt, features a center mount cast and pierced with stands of arms, American flags and a cannon. The upper mount with two fixed rings composed of leaves, with a central panel engraved with American flags and arms. An eagle surmounted by rays is engraved at the throat. A panel between the upper and middle mounts is engraved with the battles "Withlacochee /Monterey/ Buena Vista".Bradford saw service as a colonel in the Seminole War, as well as serving gallantly as Jefferson Davis' executive officer with the famed 1st Mississippi during the Mexican War, and the sword is accompanied by a detailed history of Bradford's remarkable military and political career, the sword having been consigned by Bradford's direct lineal descendant, and never before offered for sale. An 8.5" section of the scabbard, below the middle mount, is deeply chaised with scroll motifs, the drag being composed of leaves and scrolls. With the exception of the loss of gilt, the scabbard is in perfect condition. Absolutely unique in he annals of the Ames Sword Co.
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