(2) Model Musician's Swords from the Civil War. Musician's swords were a type of ceremonial weapon carried by members of military field bands, particularly in European and American armies from the 18th to early 20th centuries. Unlike combat swords, these were primarily symbolic, marking the musicians' role within the regiment.

Condition: Commensurate with age. 

Size: (Longest) 32 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 1 in. 

#9475. 

No scabbard for either piece. For this reason they both show significant rust on the blade and patina on the hilt, with tight knurling hiding the tang and a blunt quillon. Both have the manufacturer Ames Sword Company of Chicopee, Massachusetts stamped on one side of the ricasso and the date 1864 stamped on the other. Significantly, both of these swords have had the points rounded down, indicating that they were used in close combat for hacking and cutting rather than thrusting, as a cavalry sword would be used. Substantial divots throughout the edge and tip suggests this sword shed much blood, or, conversely, could be the result of the swords being modified by the descendants of the original owner to be used as toys for their children or training for their future military service. A gruesome, but fascinating, example of the quality and usage of the swords made at the time. 

Commensurate with age.