German M1873 WW1 Prussian artilleryman’s Sabre made by Weyersberg, Kirschbaum & Cie., Solingen, in 1916.
There were three patterns of the M73 sabre issued to enlisted artillerymen, those for the Prussians, the Bavarians and the Saxons. This sabre is the Prussian pattern.
The 756mm broad, curved blade has a flat spine with a wide single fuller on both sides and tapers to a spear point. The blade has a short, 80mm upper false edge. The blade has been service sharpened. The M73 sabre is a descendant of the 1812 Blucher pattern cavalry sabre and was issued to all enlisted artillery men. It was their primary close quarter weapon for use in defending the field guns. The blade is un-etched, polished steel and is in good condition with a mild speckling of patina and small edge nicks indicative of use.
The spine of the blade bears an inspection stamp (waffenampt) and the date stamp for 1916 below the crown and “W” of Kaiser Wilhelm.
The ricasso is marked with the maker’s name “Weyersberg, Kirschbaum & Cie,” and the word “Solingen,” the region in which it was made.
The steel “P” guard, quillon and back-strap have minor, shallow pitting and are bright and rust free. The hardwood grip is in good condition, with a great patina. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The steel scabbard is in good condition with minor small dings and retains its original finish. In 1910, regulations insisted that all scabbards be blackened. This was a chemical process although some war production ersatz models were painted. The bluening on this scabbard is in good condition with wear consistent with use. The throat and drag of the scabbard are stamped with inspection marks. The sabre sheathes and draws well and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a good example of a scarce World War 1 Prussian artilleryman’s’ sabre.
