Hi Jonathan,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
Ames and Henderson were prominent American sword manufacturers during the 19th century. Ames Manufacturing Company, founded by Nathan P. Ames, and Henderson Ames Company produced high-quality swords for the U.S. military, particularly during the Civil War. Their swords are renowned for their craftsmanship and historical significance.
Knights Templar ceremonial swords are ornate weapons used by members of the Masonic Knights Templar, a Christian chivalric order. These swords feature intricate designs, often with religious symbols such as crosses and crowns. Though not intended for combat, they hold significant ritual and symbolic value during ceremonial events and parades. Knights Templar and fraternal swords comprise a small niche within the larger sword-collecting community. Those swords associated with historically important figures bring a higher premium but those that do not typically do not bring very high sums when sold at auction, nearly all selling for less than $300 each. If the grip of your sword turns out to be ivory, there may be some restrictions on selling it if it is in New Jersey, though it is legal to own it if it has been inherited. For more information on the restrictions, see https://pub.njleg.gov/bills/2014/A3500/3128_I1.HTM#:~:text=A3128&text=Prohibits%20import%2C%20sale%2C%20purchase%2C,rhinoceros%20horn%2C%20with%20limited%20exceptions.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

An Antique Masonic Knights Templar Ceremonial Sword
Made by the Henderson Ames Co Kalamazoo, Michigan c1890
The pommel in the form of a knight's head, the grip of ivory or bone engraved with a cross, the cast bronze rain-guard engraved "Knights Templar", the blade etched with floral designs and bearing the name "Alonzo Rose." With scabbard.
38 inches overall length
CONDITION: This sword appears to be in good condition.
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$ 150-250*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia