Springfield Armory made only 2,476 pattern 1872 cavalry officer’s sabers between 1873 and 1902. They are extremely hard to find. Adopted in 1871, production did not start until 1873, and quantities were only intermittently produced from 1876 to 1902 (with 4 early samples and just 102 in 1876 and then none until 1880.)

Commercial versions by Lilly and other companies are common by comparison. This one is in very fine condition, with lots of gilt finish on the brass and a mirror blade with clear etching.

The blade is mirror bright with strong etching and frosting. Patterns at Springfield varied somewhat over time. On this the obverse shows a trophy of arms and flags, surmounted by scrolling floral motifs leading to an American eagle with raised wings atop and “E. PLURIBU UNUM” ribbon. Additional florals and trophies continue up the blade. The reverse is etched “SPRINGFIELD / ARMORY / SPRINGFIELD / MASS. U.S.A.” Above that stands a trophy of banners, swords, etc. with scrolling vines above, leading to a “U.S.” in Old English. An openwork of vines continues up the blade. The edge and point are immaculate.

The pommel features a deep foliate design upon a pebbled background with a Union shield facing forward with crossed sabers beneath, specifically marking it for use by cavalry. The dark gray shark skin grip and twisted brass wire are in place and tight, showing light wear. The branches have deep foliate designs inside and out. The counterguard facing the grip is decorated with an eagle clutching arrows and olive branch on a striated sunburst background with a lower border of thirteen stars. The facing side is filled with the same striated sunburst pattern. The leather washer remains in place under the guard.

The nickel-plated steel scabbard shows a little bit of wear with a few scattered chips of plating are missing. The throat, ring mounts, and drag are gilted brass. The ring mounts bear deep foliate designs harking back to the guard branches and the drag shows a sunburst of rays echoing the ground of the counterguard. Inspector’s initials “S.W.P.” are on the drag.

This is a very nice example of a hard-to-find regulation U.S. cavalry officer’s saber made at a national armory.  [jet] [ph:L]

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