US Model 1840 Ames Cavalry Saber Dated 1851
Item #: AA3913
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This is a Model 1840 Cavalry Saber, also referred to as a Dragoon Heavy Cavalry Saber, manufactured by the Ames Manufacturing Company of Cabotville, Massachusetts. The sword measures 41 1/2" overall, with a blade length of 36 1/2". The blade is slightly curved with a wide, flat back that measures 1 1/4" at the ricasso. It is a single edged blade with an integral fuller that measures 26" and a narrow fuller along the false edge measuring 18" in length. There are a numerous small nicks on the true edge of the sword, only one noticeable to the eye. The blade still exhibits a bright finish, but is developing a dull steel gray patina mottled with black age spots here and there. The reverse ricasso is marked AMES MFG.CO./CABOTVILLE/1851. The obverse ricasso is stamped US/A.D.K., standing for A.D. King, an Ames inspector from 1850-1865. The blade has never been sharpened. The brass hilt has a beautiful deep Chocolate patina. The original leather washer is missing and the blade is very tight to the hilt. The wooden grip shows only traces of the original leather wrap. There is one crack in the grip near the bottom that runs the length of the grip. The double twisted brass wire is almost gone, showing only the last four wraps going into the pommel. The brass pommel cap is also tight to the grip. The peen appears to be unmolested. The original iron scabbard is unmarked and has one small dent above the upper mount on the back side. The scabbard has taken on a dark brown patina with pitting over the entire surface. The drag is integral and shows little wear, as do the mounts and suspension rings. Overall this is a beautiful example of a Cavalry Saber that most likely saw service during the American Civil War. This Model 1840 Cavalry Saber would compliment any American Civil War collection.
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