Civil War Inscribed U.S. M1840 Heavy Cavalry Saber By Horstmann. Blade with nice smooth gray patina, marked "HORSTMANN's / PHILDA on reverse ricasso. Hilt about perfect with nice untouched patina. Leather covered grip with twisted brass wire about perfect. Absolutely authentic period script engraving on the face of the pommel cap "J. H. King / 18th Pa / Cavalry". retains the original wrist portion of the sword knot but no tassel. Nice and supple but considerable flaking. John H. King in the 18th Pennsylvania Cavalry is listed in the regimental rolls as having enlisted on 11/9/62 and deserted on 7/15/63. Interestingly the 18th was engaged at Gettysburg and on 15 July were in the area of Hagerstown, Md., where apparently Mr. King decided he had had enough. There is no scabbard. Nice sword with fascinating history.