Produced by the Ames Manufacturing Company of Chicopee, Massachusetts this weapon is a Model 1860 Light Cavalry saber with an uninspected blade dated “1860” on the ricasso. It is known that 1200 of the 5,000 sabers of this pattern produced under an 1859 Government contract, and dated “1860” on the ricasso, were shipped to the state of Virginia and used during the Civil War.

The bright, slightly curved blade has a surface that is bright and shows show only very minor amounts of mottling in two or three places and no pitting. Blade measures approx. 35.00 inches long with a stopped wide fuller that meas. approx. 27.50 inches long and a narrow fuller that is approx. 19.50 inches long. The blade edge has no nicks. Obverse riccasso is only marked “1860” with no sign of any other markings. The reverse ricasso bears a strong three-line maker’s mark that reads “AMES MFG CO / CHICOPEE / MASS.”  The leather washer at the base of the ricasso is near perfect.

The brass two-branch guard and knucklebow are strong, tight and wear a pleasing mellow patina. The brass pommel cap is void of any markings. The shallow grooved, center-swell wood grip features a very nice medium brown leather that shows some light crazing but is otherwise in excellent condition. Brass wire wrap is tight. Scratched into the underside of the counterguard is “G. H.MERRYMAN.” The three initials are very pronounced while the rest of the last name is a bit light.

The original undented steel scabbard is bright with light scattered mottling. Both mounts and rings are present as are the throat and drag. Scabbard does not show any inspector’s marks.

Tracing George H. Merryman has proved difficult. There was a George Merryman in both the 6^th US Cavalry and the 1^st US Dragoons, however further research revealed his middle initial to be W. As of this time no definite ID could be determined.

Very nice museum quality example of the Model 1860 saber with a rare date.  [ad]

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