This sword very closely resembles the 1850 "Mounted" Field and Staff Officer's Sword; they were approved on the same day. The most notable difference is the absence of the US on the guard (absent on the Foot Officer's Sword, present on the Staff & Field).
Another notable difference is the smaller guard.
It also closely resembles the Model 1852 Navy Officer's Sword, the major difference being the absence of distinct naval motif, (most notably the absence of the "dolphin's-head" on the quillon finial at the tip of the upper guard).
This pattern was used by North and South during the Civil War, with obvious associated lettering changes.
There are several variations (mostly imports), and they are usually found in "well used" to good condition.
Again the French influence is obvious.
It has a brass hilt with a dark shagreen wrap (the granular underside from the leather or skin of a seal or shark); this is bound by twisted brass or gilt wire.
These swords are found in various degrees of condition.

West Point Cadet Name Searches

I have various information on West Point Cadets - graduates and non-graduates - from 1802 to 2002. If there is a name on your sword - and that name is registered as a West Point Cadet - I can very likely supply basic information on that individual. I charge $10 to search, non-refundable. If a record is found, I will forward that information on to you via e-mail; if no record is found, I will e-mail you to that effect. Follow this link to request a West Point Cadet Search.