1846-Dated Ames Model 1840 Artillery Saber
1846-Dated Ames Model 1840 Artillery Saber - Inventory Number: SWO 316
Type I – Very Good Condition
A scarce and desirable example of the Model 1840 Artillery Saber, Type I, manufactured by the Ames Manufacturing Company of Cabotville, Massachusetts, and clearly dated 1846—early in the production run and prior to the Mexican-American War.
This early pattern features a slightly curved, single-edged blade measuring approximately 32 inches, with a wide fuller running nearly its entire length. The blade surface is smooth with a pleasing steel patina and only light scattered areas of age-related staining. The ricasso is crisply marked: “N.P. Ames / Cabotville / 1846” on one side, and “U.S.” with inspector’s initials on the reverse—both markings sharp and legible.
The brass hilt is of the Type I form, distinguished by its wide, flat, stirrup-style knucklebow, and has developed an attractive untouched patina. The leather-wrapped grip with twisted brass wire remains intact, showing only minor wear consistent with light field use.
The saber is housed in its original brass-mounted leather scabbard, which is complete and solid, with tight stitching and a rich, aged surface. The brass throat and drag are undisturbed and free of major dents, making this example increasingly rare among surviving artillery sabers.
A fine representative of an early U.S. regulation artillery saber, this 1846-dated Type I model would have been issued in the Mexican War period and potentially saw extended service into the Civil War era. A highly collectible piece in very good original condition.
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