Description
Historical Overview
The U.S. Model 1860 Light Cavalry Saber was the quintessential mounted arm carried by Union cavalry troopers through the defining campaigns of the Civil War. Designed to replace the heavier Model 1840, the M1860 provided the mounted trooper with a faster, lighter blade balanced for both cutting and thrusting from the saddle.
Markings & Stamping
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Obverse Ricasso: Crisp government acceptance stamp reading “U.S.” over wartime date “1864”, with sub-inspector initials visible under raking light.
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Reverse Ricasso: Shows traces of original contract maker’s cartouche (typical of Roby / Ames wartime federal contracts), softened and obscured by honest age and historic iron patina.
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Hilt: Heavy cast-brass three-branch guard displaying an untouched, natural mellow bronze-gold patina.
Grip, Blade & Scabbard Construction
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Grip: Original wood core wrapped in dark leather with double-twisted brass wire wrap intact and tight across the grooved ribs. Minor honest handling wear near the pommel rim reveals small areas of the antique wood core underneath.
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Blade: Curved single-edge carbon steel blade featuring a wide primary fuller and narrow spine fuller. Displays honest, uncleaned service graying and dark mottling. Mid-blade edge exhibits authentic period service notches/fencing parry nicks from active field use.
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Scabbard: Original heavy-gauge iron scabbard with dual suspension rings, throat collar, and drag intact. Finished in an uncleaned, deep chocolate-plum combat patina with no major crushing.
Specifications
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Pattern: U.S. Model 1860 Light Cavalry Saber (Enlisted)
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Date of Manufacture: 1864
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Blade Length: Approx. 34.5 to 35 inches
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Overall Length (in Scabbard): Approx. 41.5 to 42 inches
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Condition: Untouched, 100% original antique condition. Never buffed, chemically stripped, or altered.
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