[CIVIL WAR]. US Model 1840 Heavy Cavalry saber. Manufactured by Ames. 

35 1/2 in. curved, single-edged blade with 25 1/4 in. stopped median fuller and flat spine. 41 1/4 in. in overall length. Three-branch brass guard with Phrygian helmet pommel cap and grooved wood grip covered in leather and with 19 wraps of double-strand twisted brass wire. Reverse ricasso marked "N.P. AMES / CABOTVILLE / 1848" in three lines with obverse ricasso marked "US / WD" in two lines. Pommel cap with the "WD" and "JWR" initials of arsenal sub-inspector William Dickinson and Ordnance Officer James W. Ripley, respectively. Iron scabbard with brazed seam and two suspension rings has no visible inspection on the drag. 

______________________________________________________________________________________

Condition about very good with plated blade that is starting to flake and lose the applied nickel plating in some areas, most notably in the last few inches closest to the tip. Blade shows some scattered areas of light oxidation and discoloration as well, and a few minor nicks and chips along the cutting edge. Markings remain clear and crisp throughout. Guard with a rich, uncleaned bronze patina. Leather cover and wire wrap on grip remain in fine and apparently original condition. Blade to hilt fit is tight with untouched peen. Retains leather throat washer with moderate wear.


The Civil War and American Militaria Collection of Bruce B. Hermann

Condition about very good with plated blade that is starting to flake and lose the applied nickel plating in some areas, most notably in the last few inches closest to the tip. Blade shows some scattered areas of light oxidation and discoloration as well, and a few minor nicks and chips along the cutting edge. Markings remain clear and crisp throughout. Guard with a rich, uncleaned bronze patina. Leather cover and wire wrap on grip remain in fine and apparently original condition. Blade to hilt fit is tight with untouched peen. Retains leather throat washer with moderate wear.