THE MOST PRISTINE EXAMPLE FLEISCHER'S AUCTIONS HAS EVER HANDLED.

Model 1840 Officer’s Cavalry Saber. Horstmann & Sons: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 

32in single-edge curved blade. Complete in iron scabbard with chocolate brown patina. Visible on the reverse ricasso is an imprint of the Weyersburg of Solingen, Prussia, “King’s Head” logo, indicating its maker’s origin. The blade itself is etched impressively, with two panels exhibited closest to the ricasso. Upon one of these panels is etched “WH Horstmann / & Sons / Philadelphia. The spine of the blade is decorated with a lead pattern and the words “IRON PROOF” etched just forward of the hilt. Blade engraved with small foliate designs throughout half its length on one side and patriotic motifs and foliate scrolls to the alternate side. Elegant brass hilt and guard decorated with scrolling foliage. Shagreen handle wrapped in double-twisted gilt copper wiring.  

Affectionately known as the “wrist-breaker,” the M1840 was popularly distributed amongst cavalry troopers as standard issue. This particular saber was manufactured by Horstmann & Sons, one of the leading blade assembly distributors.  William H. Horstmann established his company in Philadelphia in the mid-1820s, after immigrating from Germany. Before arriving in the United States, Horstmann apprenticed as a passementerie, refining his skill in crafting ornamental fringe and lace–skills which clearly surfaced throughout the blade engraving style of his swords. Horstmann & Sons quickly gained a reputation throughout the United States, particularly during the Civil War, for their skill and craft in sword assembly.  

A beautiful example of a Model 1840 Officer’s Cavalry Saber. 

Note: This lot cannot be packaged and shipped in-house. Successful bidders winning items marked as being packaged and shipped by a third-party service are responsible for paying the third party directly. We are happy to offer complimentary drop-off service to local third-party packing/shipping companies in Columbus, Ohio.

[Civil War, Union, Confederate]  [Relics, Militaria] [Medals, Corps Badges, Badges][Swords, Knives, Bowie Knives, Knife, Blades]