Rare Rifleman's Knife (MEW2140)

Original Riflemans knife. Ricassso is marked "Ames MFG Co. Cabotville 1849" and is marked "S. Carolina" near spine. The reverse side is marked "USMR" for the US mounted riflemen. The cross guard has the "WD" and "JWR" markings. The sheath is leather with brass fittings. The stud, for frog, is marked "D". The blade has been sharpened long ago most likely by a soldier. The hilt is very good with the three rivets in the wod slabs. The hole in the pommel is for a leather or rawhide loop to prevent the blade from being lost in battle or daily use. (The rawhide in the loop is not original to the knife.) These were only made in 1849! Very hard to find.