US M1840 Cavalry Saber

This model was the standard issue cavalry trooper's sword until the lighter M1860 was introduced, but continued in use throughout the Civil War by both sides. Affectionately known as "Old Wristbreaker" by the troops due to its size and weight, it was basically a US version of the French M1822 light cavalry saber. During most of the 19th C the French set the styles for swords, which were copied by most of Europe and the United States. The US M1840 was made by many firms and many were imported or used imported blades, primarily from Germany. This example features curved single-edged 34 3/4" (88 cm) blade with broad 3/4-length fuller and a shorter narrow fuller at the back edge; the ricasso stamped with the maker's mark “K & C" for C.R. Kirschbaum and Company of Solingen Germany, one of the world's oldest blade making families . The opposite side stamped with “IRON PROOF”. Standard one-piece brass guard with knuckle bow and conjoined two-branch side bars joining the brass Phrygian helmet style pommel. Original leather-wrapped wood grip with twisted brass wire (leather worn and about 40% absent, wire complete but loose). Original brown iron scabbard with twin carry rings. The blade primarily smooth, with scattered staining. Brass with dark patina. Overall length 40 3/8”, (102.5 cm) not including scabbard.