November 7-8, 2018 Edged Weapons, Armor, & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/8/2018
This imported Cavalry officer's saber is a copy of a model 1860 Ames Cavalry saber and was retailed by Schuyler, Hartley & Graham in New York. Several original Ames letters exist complaining about importers copying their swords. This is one of those swords sold by a famed New York firm. These swords were of inferior quality and were cheaper than Ames swords. The curved steel blade has two partial fullers on each side and is etched with long panels on both sides. The right side features a liberty cap, a patriotic eagle, and crossed American flags, with the phrase "Stand By The Union." The left side is engraved the same but instead of the eagle there is an intertwined "U.S.". It is marked above the ricasso with etched "SCHUYLER/ HARTLEY &/ GRAHAM/ NEW-YORK" markings. The gilt brass hilt is in the style of the Model 1860 Cavalry saber but is of slightly more delicate proportions. The grip is covered with polished sharkskin and has twisted brass wire wrap. The sword is complete with its steel scabbard with twin hanging mount. CONDITION: Very good. Blade retains a spotted grey patina with some light wear to etching. Hilt retains 85-90% of its original gilt finish with some thinning. Grip is excellent. Scabbard has been cleaned and retains a mix of grey and spotted brown patinas with some minor denting. This is a scarce variant of the famous 1860 cavalry saber, which was one of the most prolific swords used during the civil war.