US M1840 Cavalry Saber and Scabbard

Description

The Model 1840 was the standard issue cavalry trooper=s sword until the lighter M1860 was introduced, but continued in use throughout the Civil War by both sides. Affectionately known as AOld Wristbreaker@ by the troops due to its size and weight, it was basically a US version of the French M1822 light cavalry saber. During most of the 19^th C the French set the styles for swords, which were copied by most of Europe and the United States. The US M1840 was made by many firms and many were imported or used imported blades, primarily from Germany. This example with 36 1/8” single-edged blade with one broad and one narrow fuller; the ricasso stamped with maker’s name “W. WALSCHEID/SOLINGEN”. Wilhelm Walscheid operated in Solingen, Germany between 1855 and 1865 and sold swords to both sides before and during the American Civil War, primarily through his agent, Wagner & Walscheid, in New York. It features the standard brass hilt with elliptical guard and knucklebow with two adjoining branches, connecting to the Phrygian helmet style pommel. Tapering, curved wood grip covered in leather and wrapped with twisted brass wire. Leather blade washer. Original iron scabbard with twin carry rings. Overall length 41 7/8”, not including scabbard. Blade mostly smooth with several shallow edge nicks; light pitting and age staining, primarily within 10” of the guard. Leather grip wrap with small losses. Brass guard with mellow mustard brown patina. Scabbard with dark patina.