This model 1860 heavy cavalry sabre was produced in the U.S. state of Massachusetts for use by the Northern cavalry forces during the American Civil War (1861-65). The sabre was made by the Ames Manufacturing Company in 1865 so it is unlikely that it saw active service during the conflict.
The 885mm Montmorency style blade has a pronounced curve with a wide, slightly rounded spine above twin fullers, one narrow, one broad. The long, broad fuller begins with a flat line at the ricasso (in later models the beginning of the fuller is rounded). Within the broad fuller, the second very narrow fuller runs directly below the spine. The blade is in great condition with only very mild patches of tarnish. The ricasso is stamped with a scroll bearing the details, “Made by AMES MFG CO. CHICOPEE MASS.” The obverse ricasso is stamped, “U.S. G.W.C 1865.”
The heavy, three-branch brass guard is in excellent condition. The original leather grip is in excellent condition and the twisted brass wire is intact and tight. The pommel of the hilt is stamped with the US inspector’s initials G.W.C.
The heavy-duty steel scabbard has double suspension rings. The scabbard is in good condition with minimal patches of tarnish and some shallow pitting towards the drag. The sword sheaths and draws smoothly and is held firmly in the scabbard.
This is a very good example of a US model 1860 cavalry sabre made by a top American maker.
