US Model 1840 Mounted Artillery Saber

Description

Like most US swords of the 19th C, the US M1840 Light (Horse) Artillery Saber was
patterned after a French model, in this case the M1829 Mounted Gunner’s Saber. On
August 26, 1844, Nathan P. Ames, Jr. received his first contract for these new sabers.
Ames made two versions of this saber and they were the only company contracted with the
Ordnance Department to make them until 1861. The first version was patterned directly
from the French M1829 and had no reinforced scabbard throat body, with the throat fitting
into a raised casting at the bottom of the guard. These have been found as late as 1860.
The second version, dated between 1861 and 1865, had the scabbard throat reinforced
with a collar and the sword hilt had no recess. Instead, the scabbard fit against a leather
washer on the base of the hilt to provide a waterproof seal. When the Civil War broke out,
the ordnance Department contracted several other companies to produce the sword, all of
which produced the second version. However, Ames made by far the most, making 24,602
of these sabers between 1844 and 1865, far fewer than their cavalry counterparts. This
example of Type 2 construction, with 32” curved single-edged blade with broad single fuller,
the ricasso stamped “U.S./L.D.(?)/1862″. The opposite ricasso with no visible maker’s
name, but this is likely of Ames manufacture and “LD” was L. Dustin, inspector at Ames
from 1861 to 1863. Brass hilt of typical form, featuring reverse scroll quillon and integral
knuckle bow connected to the Phrygian helmet style pommel. Leather-covered wood grip
with brass wire wrap. Iron scabbard with two carry bands and rings, the throat with
reinforcing collar stamped “109″, probably a unit issue number. Blade smooth, with age
staining. Guard with mellow golden brown patina; the grip and wrap complete, but showing
wear. Scabbard with light pitting and rust marking. Overall length 37″, not including
scabbard.