This is a Model 1840 heavy Cavalry Saber made by the Sheble & Fisher of Philadelphia, Pa. These particular swords are a little scarce. No known records can be found of a government contract being awarded to Sheble & Fisher for swords, yet examples of the Model 1840 and 1860 Cavalry Sabers, Enlisted Artillery Sabers can be found today. It is not known how many of the Model 1840 Cavalry sabers were produced, and of those available none are US marked or inspected. This example of their Model 1840 is no different. The sword has an overall length of 41 1/2", with a blade length of 36". The blade has two fullers, a wide one that is 24" long and 7/8" wide, and a narrow fuller 16 1/2" long and 3/32" wide. The blade width is 1 1/4" and has a spine thickness of 5/16" at the hilt. The reverse ricasso is stamped with SHEBLE & FISHER in an arc of PHILADa. The blade still retains are very bright finish, with scattered age spots near the last 12" of the blade on both sides. The brass hilt has a two branch guard. An small star is stamped into the front of the guard where the knucklebow joins it. The pommel cap is plain, and remains tight to the grip and the peen is undisturbed. The grip shows some heavy use, with areas of the leather missing. The double strand brass wire is intact, but loose on the grip in a couple spots. The original leather washer is still hanging on, but also shows heavy wear. The iron scabbard has moderate rust along the body of the scabbard on both sides, but it still displays well. It is not heavily pitted and would probably clean up pretty well. There are no dents to be found. Both mounts are secure to the scabbard and show signs of wear as well. The over sized drag is not stamped with any numbers like some other known examples are. This is just a nice example of a Civil War used edged weapon that survived the passing years quite well. If you are a collector of Cavalry Sabers chances are you don't have one of these yet. Grab it quick, at this price it won't last long!

Item # AA1059

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