Manufactured: Chicopee, Mass.

Maker: Ames Mfg Co.

Year: 1859

Model: M1860 Cavalry Saber

Size: 35 inch blade

Condition: VG

US M1860 Cavalry Saber made by Ames Mfg. Co. Dated 1859. Very rare pre-war dated Ames. It is believed that it was the ‘59 dated Ames sabers that were sent South prior to hostilities breaking out.

This pre-war Ames saber specimen is the forerunner of the type issued to Federal horsemen during the American Civil War. Produced by the Chicopee, Massachusetts firm of Ames Sword Company, this weapon is the Model 1860 Light Cavalry saber that was initially called the ‘new pattern’ 1860 saber. This edged weapon is dated “1859” and was one of five thousand such ‘new pattern’ Model 1860 sabers that Ames delivered under its 1859 contract to the Ordnance Dept from 1859 through early 1861. Interestingly, 1,200 units of this batch of 5,000 contract of 1859 sabers were sent south to Virginia just prior to the war. Considered a lighter, more maneuverable and finely made weapon than its predecessor the M1840 Wristbreaker, the light cavalry saber weighed 3lbs, 7 oz in the scabbard.

This saber has nice patina to the brass guard and a super leather grip with twisted wire. Pommel is inspected with “WAT” and “JH” on the rim. Blade shows use but is very fine for an 1859. It has a nice gray / bright patina with some slight staining. Blade markings are super sharp, clear and deeply struck. Obverse ricasso is dated “US / JH / 1859”. Reverse ricasso has “Ames Mfg. Co. Chicopee, Mass.” stamp. Steel scabbard is taking on a brown patina with no inspector stampings. A scarce pre-contract that likely went south.

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