Scarce M1833 US Dragoon Sword

A scarce US m1833 dragoon sword. These were produced based on a design submitted to the US ordnance department in 1833 by Nathan P Ames, who was subsequently given a production order in 1834.

They were normally marked at the forte 'N.P. Ames, cutler, Springfield', along with a date between 1834 and 1840. further down the blade they were often marked 'United States' above a floral motif. examples may also be found marked to the 'Texas Dragoons' and also with other regimental names. These kinds of markings were engraved very shallowly, and this example is also nickel plated, so no markings are visible.

Government inspectors' marks are usually present on these swords, and this example has a well-known one, 'M.P.L.', for Major Mann Page Lomax.

The blades were secured using a slotted nut, recessed into the pommel. This was to aid ease of construction and any subsequent repairs.