A key piece in a collection of U.S. edged weapons or a cavalry collection, this is the classic U.S. dragoon saber of the Mexican War, also carried by dragoons and cavalry in the early Indian campaigns and expeditions of the 1840s and 1850s. Modeled on French cavalry sabers of the period, this pattern replaced the 1833 dragoon saber and remained in service all through the Civil War next it its own replacement, the 1860 light cavalry saber.

This one has its original leather grip wrap intact along with its twisted brass binding wire. The pommel cap has a “J.H.” inspector mark matching that on the ricasso of the blade, and the blade tang shows no sign of ever having been messed with. The brass hilt has a pleasing mellow patina and the leather sealing pad is still in place at the blade shoulder under the guard. The blade rates very good to excellent, with bright silvery-gray smooth metal showing just a dusting of gray spots. It has a good point and edge with no nicks, chips, or sharpening. The blade markings are crisp. The “Ames Mfg. Co / Chicoppee/ Mass” on the reverse shows just a little rubbing at the upper right and lower left. The US acceptance/property mark, J.H. inspector stamp, and 1857 date are sharp on the obverse as well. The scabbard is “in the bright,” as is correct and shows scattered brown spots and some gray areas overall, but has no dents or dings and the drag, throat and carrying rings are all in place.

Ames delivered just 1,000 model 1840 sabers in 1857 to complete previous contracts and the last of them, 500, were ordered and delivered in 1858. When war broke out the 1860 pattern was in production, but supply could never keep up with demand and the 1840 saw very active service in the hands of Civil War cavalry throughout the conflict.  [sr]

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