Here is an original, pre-war Ames Manufacturing Company saber specimen and 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. The edged weapon is dated “1859” and was one of some five thousand such ‘new pattern’ Model 1860 sabers that Ames delivered to the U.S. Ordnance Dept under various contracts from September 29, 1859 to January 11, 1861. Considered a lighter and 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 34¾”, width is 1 1/16” with a wide fuller 27½” long and narrow fuller 19” long. Blade is slightly curved with normal age discoloration and scattered pin prick rust pitting overall. Blade appears to have been cleaned at one time. Never sharpened. Marked on the obverse riccasso is “U.S. / JH / 1859.” Reverse ricasso bears “AMES MFG CO / CHICOPEE / MASS.” in the three-line block style address. Brass hilt retains its original buff leather washer and a domed pommel cap that bears two inspectors stamps of “JH” (Joseph Harris) and “WAT” (William A. Thornton) the brim. Brass two-branch guard and knucklebow are strong, tight and wear a pleasing mellow bronze patina overall. Branches not bent. The shallow grooved, center-swell handle grips features the typical black bridle leather wrap in excellent original condition with no rips or tears.

The steel scabbard has acquired a pleasing plum-brown patina with just light pitting overall. The two ring bands are tight and secure two 1 1/8” diameter sword rings. No dings and dents to the scabbard body. Original scabbard retains its throat collar and exhibits a brazed seam along the entire bottom length of the scabbard where the metal was folded and joined. Drag shows no edge wear but has inspector marks “JH”. This is one of the early production Ames light cavalry sabers and would enhance any Civil War edged weapon collection or cavalry display.

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