1862 Ames Artillery Saber / SOLD
1862 Ames Artillery Saber - Inventory Number: SWO 283 / SOLD
An original, mid war enlisted Model 1840 light artillery saber that is complete with its original metal scabbard. Termed Ames Type 2, this variation was made from 1860 through 1865 and features a saber that has a flush handguard on the blade side without a recess and its matching scabbard has a throat collar mount like the M1860 cavalry model.
Blade and scabbard are both in very good condition. Made for light artillery (mounted units), this edged weapon was contracted by the government and delivered in 1862. Clearly marked on the obverse ricasso of the blade is the stamping “U.S / WC / 1862” in block format. Reverse ricasso of blade bears the maker address of “AMES MFg Co / CHICOPEE / MASS” in very light but readable markings. This saber has a 32¼” long, curved, single edged steel blade with a flat top and a single wide fuller. Blade is in very good condition and exhibits a light, semi-bright sheen with just normal pinprick rust pitting and some dark age coloration overall. Blade has been cleaned at one time and is in excellent shape with no edge nicks visible.
The original leather washer pad is strong and intact. Brass pommel has a 3/8” high, domed cap and bears no inspector marks. Entire brass hilt, including the pommel has acquired a rich, pleasing bronze patina. Original grips, strong and tight, consist of a turned, wooden handle with sixteen grooves wrapped with black bridle leather and encircled with original, twisted, brass wire wrap. Leather is sound condition.
The undented iron scabbard exhibits a smooth plum-colored patina overall and is in solid caked up textured patina. The large, iron, ring bands are tight and suspend the two sword suspension rings. The throat is unmarked. This wonderful condition, 1862-dated Ames specimen M1840 artillery saber is a true early wart artifact of the Civil War.