Model 1840 artillery enlisted saber that is complete with its original metal scabbard.  Produced by Ames of Chicopee, Mass, this mounted artillery specimen is an early war piece bearing the date “1861”. One of 4,250 sabers produced for the Ordnance Dept in 1861, the saber was designed in the pattern of the French mounted edged weapon and features a single stopped fuller. Made for light artillery (mounted units), this M1840 artillery saber features a steel saber that has a conventional flat back and measures 32” long with a width of 1 9/32”.

Weapon has a brass pommel cap, single brass knucklebow with original grips that have lost all but two strands of brass twisted wire wrap. Black leather wrap is flaked off and almost gone. Blade is in fair condition and exhibits a dark gray sheen with salt & pepper pitting along with age coloration overall. Blade, with its ‘hatchet type’ tip, has been heavily cleaned and shows a number of rough edge nicks over its entire length.  Stamped on the reverse ricasso of the blade is the stamping of“AMES MFG CO / CHICOPEE / MASS.” on a scroll design. Obverse ricasso shows “US” / JH / 1861”. Brass hilt, knucklebow and pommel show a mellow bronze scheen.

Iron scabbard is dented near the drag and exhibits a smooth, dark patina with scattered pinprick rust pockmarks over the length. Drag shows inspector marks of “JH”. The scabbard’s two, large, iron mounting bands are tight and secure the 1½” dia. suspension rings.  A nice early war artillery collectible.