[CIVIL WAR]. US Model 1860 Light Cavalry saber. Manufactured by Ames, Chicopee, MA.

34 3/4 in. curved, single-edged blade with rounded spine and 27 in. stopped median fuller. Overall length 41 1/4 in. Three-branch brass guard with Phrygian helmet pommel cap and grooved wood grip covered in leather and with 12 wraps of double-strand twisted brass wire. Reverse ricasso with Ames scroll marking reading in four lines: "Made by / Ames Mfg. Co / CHICOPEE / MASS." Obverse ricasso marked: "US / GKC / 1862." With the “G” and “1” essentially illegible due to a light strike or worn die. Pommel cap with the "AHC" mark of arsenal sub-inspector Archibald H. Ceiley with the “C” almost illegible as well. Includes correct pattern seamed iron scabbard with two suspension rings and a "JCW" inspection on the drag.

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Good to very good with some scattered discoloration and light surface oxidation. Blade shows a few very minor nicks along the cutting edge. Markings remain mostly legible, as noted. Guard with a rich, uncleaned bronze patina. Leather cover on grip is well-worn and flaked with much of the surface finish worn away and some wood exposed. Wire wrap slightly loose. Blade to hilt fit is tight with the peen showing some minor irregularities. Retains leather throat washer with moderate wear. Scabbard moderately oxidized with scattered surface discoloration and some scattered dings, and the drag showing some wear.

The Civil War and American Militaria Collection of Bruce B. Hermann