US Model 1840 Heavy Cavalry (Dragoon) Saber with Scabbard by Ames (1856)

Description: This listing is for an US Model 1840 Heavy Cavalry (Dragoon) Saber with Scabbard by Ames (1856). This is the model of sword nicknamed "Old Wristbreaker" by the men who used it. From the original dealer with regard to this specific weapon: "Fine American made Model 1840 Heavy Cavalry Saber. This saber is in EXCELLENT PLUS CONDITION. It was made by Ames Manufacturing Company of Chicopee, MASS in 1856. The overall length of this saber is 41-3/8" with the blade being 35-3/4" long and 1-3/4" wide. There are three very light blade knicks on the lower third of the blade. Otherwise the blade is perfect with much of the original finish still present . The original felt bumper is still present and in excellent condition. The blade markings are very light as if an attempt was made many years ago to erase them. Upon very close inspection, one can see marks indicating there was an attempt made to remove the blade markings. This possibly indicates Confederate ownership. The remaining markings on the obverse are U.S. and JH in two lines. The reverse is AM (Ames) C (Chicopee, Mass.) 1*56 (1856) in three lines. The hilt and grip are mint plus. The grip is excellent with the original leather and twisted wire wrap. The brass half basket guard is also superb. Additionally the pommel is stamped A.D.K. and double stamped R.H.K.W. The iron scabbard is present and excellent with only minor age blemishes. In 1840 the War Department adopted this new model saber for the Army's three regiments of cavalry. It is closely patterned after the French Model 1822 and is often confused with the French saber. The key to identifying a true American 1840 Dragoon Saber is the Ames markings. The 1840 Heavy Dragoon was used in the war with Mexico and our own Civil War. Since it was made for only three regiments of cavalry it is very rare today especially in this condition. For further information on this pattern saber, please see pages 32 - 35 of "The American Sword 1775 - 1945" by Harold L. Peterson." My father was a lifelong collector of swords and flintlock pistols from the American Revolutionary War through the Civil War. He retained detailed files of where each item was purchased, and only bought from well-known dealers of high integrity. If you would like additional details on a specific item please let me know. At the time of his death, the collection remained with my mother. I am selling the collection on her behalf to provide additional funds for her retirement and in the hopes these phenomenal items may find homes with other collectors. Sincere offers will be considered. Having grown up with many of these weapons on display in our home, I am familiar with the history of them although I am not an expert on appraising edged weapons. Shipping is free in the United States. The package will require signature confirmation on receipt due to the dollar value of the item.

Price: 2000 USD

Location: Flower Mound, Texas

End Time: 2025-01-07T14:25:42.000Z

Shipping Cost: 0 USD