This early production saber, issued to Federal horsemen during the American Civil War, was produced under the smallest government contract for sabers (10,000) by the D. J. Millard Company’s manufacturing center in Clayville, New York. Weapon is the M1860 Light Cavalry saber. Considered a lighter, more maneuverable weapon than its predecessor the M1840 Wristbreaker, the light cavalry saber weighed 3lbs, 7 oz. in the scabbard.

The blade length of this weapon measures 34½”, width is 1 3/32” with a wide fuller 27½” long and the narrow fuller 18¼” long. Marked in a large oval on the reverse ricasso is the maker’s address “D. J. MILLARD / CLAYVILLE / N. Y.” Obverse ricasso shows fine and clear government stampings of “US / W.E.H. / 1862”. The strong, lightly curved blade is not bent and exhibits a semi-bright sheen along with just some scattered pin prick rust pitting overall. Two small edge nicks visible.

Brass domed pommel cap is tight and its brim exhibits government inspector’s marks “C.E.W.” and “W.E.H.”. Brass hilt with its two-branch guard and knucklebow is symmetrical, not cracked or bent. Still has its original buff leather washer. Hilt, which wears a rich, pleasing, uncleaned bronze patina overall is tight to the handle. The shallow grooved, center-swell grips feature black bridle leather wrap in fair to good original condition with no rips or tears but does show light scuffing. Side seam is opened slightly. Brass wire wrap is original and very tight. Steel scabbard is in very good condition with few shallow dents.

Scabbard has acquired a handsome dark brown / plum patina with few areas of dark oxidation and some pinprick-pitting overall. Drag exhibits moderate wear but no inspector marks. An early production D. J. Millard light cavalry saber with its original scabbard.

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