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This is a particularly desirable example because it is clearly dated 1862, placing its manufacture directly in one of the defining years of the Civil War. The Model 1860 was the classic edged weapon carried by Union cavalry during the conflict.
The ricasso bears the AMES MFG. CO. / CHICOPEE / MASS. maker marking, with the opposite side bearing the U.S. inspection marking and 1862 date. The brass guard is additionally numbered 12206.
Features include the classic deeply curved M1860 blade with broad fuller, three-branch brass cavalry guard, leather-covered grip with twisted wire wrap, and steel two-ring cavalry scabbard. An old leather suspension strap remains attached to the scabbard rings.
The saber presents extremely well as a complete Civil War cavalry piece. The blade retains a strong profile and shows honest age, scattered oxidation/pitting, staining and evidence of past cleaning. The steel scabbard likewise shows age, oxidation and surface wear. Brass hilt has developed an attractive mellow finish. Please examine the detailed photographs closely, as they form an important part of the condition description.
Historical Connection
1862 was one of the pivotal years of the American Civil War, encompassing the Peninsula Campaign, Second Bull Run, Antietam and Fredericksburg, along with extensive cavalry operations throughout both theaters.
This saber was manufactured and U.S. inspected during that wartime period by Ames, one of America\'s best-known military sword manufacturers and an important supplier of edged weapons to the United States government.
No claim is made that this individual saber participated in a particular battle or campaign; its documented connection is its Ames manufacture, U.S. inspection and 1862 Civil War date.
A strong display piece for a collection of Civil War, Union cavalry, Ames Manufacturing, U.S. military swords or 19th-century American militaria.
