1833 Ames Dragoon Sabre

[UCVRelics]

Last week I did one of my favorite things, some good ole fashion trading. The 3 swords I got were a model 1840 S&K, an 1864 Ames and the one I drooled over, The model 1833 dragoon sabre by Ames. This is one nice sabre. The drag and the "United States" etched on the blade is awesome.

The model 1833 dragoon saber was closely modeled after the similar British model 1821. Sword was introduced with the three branches on the hilt, this feature appears on all later versions of the cavalry saber. A brass cover is fitted on top of the grip, grip is leather covered and was wrapped in brass wire. Quillion is distinct scroll. The blade features a rounded edge at the top and is not stopped. Manufactured by N.P. Ames, Springfield, Massachusetts. Ricasso is engraved in hand script style "NP Ames / Cutler / Springfield, 1837"

 

[Richard E. Schenk]

A brass cover is fitted on top of the grip, grip is lead covered and wrapped in brass wire.

I presume you meant "leather", not "lead". This is a very nice example of this scarce sword. There weren't all that many made to begin with, and for some reason a good portion of those which survive are in very rough condition. The inscription on the blade is frequently very light if visible at all. Yours is one of the best inscriptions I have seen. I believe you said the wire wrap on the grip is in place. It really doesn't show up in the photo, but its presence is another big plus. Bottom line, congrats on a great find.

 

[UCVRelics]

Thanks. This wasn't considered a sword but a sabre due to its length and style. I have seen examples of this sabre made with etching from the states of South Carolina and North Carolina and Virginia, which I wish this one had any of those 3 but I'll take it like it is.

 

[Richard E. Schenk]

Virginia? That's a new one on me. I've heard of North and South Carolina marked examples a a quite a few marked "MS" for Massachusetts, but never Virginia. Well, we all learn. Of course the real coup would be to find one of the 280 purchased by the Republic of Texas in 1840! I only have one garden-variety 1837- dated example, but, except for one large dent to the scabbard is in pretty goof condition. It is one of my favorites as well.

 

[UCVRelics]

Nice one even with the dent, that's what makes it what it is. I'm only 60 and have more dents then that,