US Model 1840 Mounted Artillery Saber

Description

Like most US swords of the 19^th 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. In all, 24,602 of these sabers were made by Ames between 1844 and 1865. This example with 32 1/4” curved single-edged blade with broad single fuller; the ricasso stamped on one side with “U.S./M.M./1864” (M. Moulton, civilian inspector), the other side with worn markings, now showing only a few faint letters and “MASS”, but certainly of Ames manufacture. Brass hilt with knuckle bow and reverse scroll quillon, attaching to the Phrygian helmet style pommel. Pommel with small “JH” stamp on top (either inspector John Hannis or Joseph Hannis, arsenal inspectors from 1844-1864). Leather-covered wood grip with twisted wire wrap. Steel scabbard with two carry rings, reinforced throat, and brazed drag. Very good condition, the blade bright with shallow edge nicks; brass guard with pleasing even patina; grip very good plus. Scabbard cleaned and showing some rust marking. Overall length 37 3/4”, not including scabbard.