This heavy cavalry sabre, commonly referred to as Model 1840 “Wrist-breaker” was one of the military sabres used by U.S. mounted forces before and during the American Civil War (1861-65). These sabres were a copy of the earlier French Mdle 1822 Cavalry Sabre and the development of the US M1840 closely followed that of the French M1822. French Mdle 1822 sabres were however only produced in France.
Made by P. D. Luneschloss of Solingen, Germany, the single-edged blade has a pronounced curve with a flat wide spine that dates it to pre-1860. The 1860 model having a rounded spine.
The 895mm Montmorency style blade has a short narrow fuller above a long, wide fuller beginning with a flat line at the ricasso. From 1860 onwards the beginning of the fuller is rounded at the ricasso. The blade has some minor sharpening scratches and a few tiny edge nicks along the forward edge but is otherwise in excellent condition. The first 300mm remain very sharp. The ricasso is marked with a toothed oval maker’s mark containing the letters P.D.L., for P. D. Luneschloss of Solingen. Tiffany & Co. were one of the main US retailers of M1840 sabres made by P. D. Luneschloss. The obverse ricasso is plain.
The heavy, three-branch brass hilt is stamped on the D-guard with the number 79. The guard is in good condition and exhibits a beautiful and untouched age patina. The grip is in excellent condition for its age and use. The twisted wire is intact although it may be a well done replacement. The original leather is in good condition with some age and use related marks. The leather covers a wooden handle wrapped with cord for added grip. The peen is undisturbed.
The scabbard is in excellent condition without dents. The sword sheaths and draws smoothly and is held firmly in the scabbard.
This is an excellent example of the famous US cavalry sabre.
