Maker: N.P. Ames, Springfield, Massachusetts

Model: 1841 U.S. Naval Cutlass

Date: 1846

Blade Length: Approximately 21” (standard regulation length)

Overall Length: Approximately 26”

Markings:
The reverse ricasso of the blade is marked “N.P. AMES / SPRINGFIELD,” partially rubbed but still legible. The obverse side is marked at the ricasso with partially visible “USN” above a clearly stamped “1846” date. Below this is a faint but recognizable inspector’s stamp “R,” commonly encountered on other Model 1841 cutlasses but not specifically identified. The brass hilt shows clear inspector stamps: “R.C.” (Rufus Chandler, Navy Bureau of Ordnance inspector) on the reverse quillon disk and “J.L.” within an oval (Joseph Lanman, U.S. Navy inspector) on the obverse quillon disk. Both inspection marks feature a line of small check marks across them, typically found on surplus-disposed naval weapons. The cast eagle motifs on each side of the pommel remain distinct and sharp. The underside of the brass handguard is marked "55 / 90".

Blade Configuration & Condition:
This regulation double-edged blade features a central median ridge without fullers, characteristic of the M1841 naval pattern. The blade has a bluish-gray patina overall with thin, darker gray areas and exhibits some shallow, scattered pitting consistent with maritime use and age. The cutting edges show only minor nicks, nothing severe, and the blade retains a good, sharp point. Markings on the ricasso remain partially clear despite having been worn by periodic cleaning throughout its service life.

Hilt Configuration & Condition:
The brass guard and pommel have acquired an even, medium-aged patina. The guard design includes a reinforced knuckleguard extending downward into a wide, counterguard ending with a quillon terminating in a disk. The reverse disk is marked "R.C." and the obverse "J.L." in an oval, both clearly stamped. The pommel castings, featuring an eagle on both sides, show slight wear but retain clear outlines and definition. Overall, the hilt remains solid and attractive, reflecting genuine handling and use, with no damage or structural issues.

Historical Assessment:
The Ames Model 1841 U.S. Naval Cutlass is historically significant and notably scarce, with only 6,600 units produced between 1842-1846. The clearly stamped date "1846" places this cutlass within the batch of 1,200 produced on the September 21, 1844, contract and delivered by September 1845, or possibly among a smaller subsequent batch from July 1846. These cutlasses played active roles throughout the Mexican-American War (1846-1848), notably at Vera Cruz in 1847 and other naval actions along the Gulf Coast and in California. Afterward, they saw widespread naval service, including Commodore Perry’s expedition to China and Japan, and remained the standard-issue naval cutlass up to and into the early stages of the American Civil War.

These rugged naval blades, inspired partly by the U.S. Army’s earlier 1832/33 pattern short sword, proved versatile in shipboard combat and utility tasks, effectively cutting through boarding nets or handling rigging emergencies. Their historical use through multiple conflicts and their ongoing presence aboard U.S. Navy ships worldwide adds considerably to their desirability and collectible status.

This particular example is a very good representative piece of American naval history. It shows genuine use and careful handling, retains legible markings, inspector’s stamps, and distinct, attractive patina—exactly what collectors seek in authentic naval antiques. The "55/90" marking beneath the guard suggests a shipboard rack or inventory marking, adding another layer of historical intrigue. The clear 1846 dating, confirmed Ames maker marks, and documented inspector’s stamps provide strong provenance and historical integrity, making this Model 1841 Naval Cutlass an outstanding candidate for inclusion in any serious collection of American naval and edged weaponry.