Item #66387 : Original era manufacture. A solid example of the US Army Light Artillery Saber, with an unusual set of markings. The blade was made by Ames Sword Company of Chicopee Massachusetts in 1847. Measuring 32 inches in length, polished steel finish, clean, no corrosion issues, with a slight drift to the left about 8 inches back from the point where the spine begins to widen. The reverse ricasso shows a clearly stamped US with the initials SK (Schnitzler & Kirschbaum) below. On the obverse, stamped in clear lettering is N.P.AMES CABOTVILLE with a deeply struck 1847 date below. Mellow brass patina to the guard, with the recess at the base of the blade to allow entry of the scabbard throat. On the top of the pommel cap above the guard connecting point is an additional SK proof, and on the opposite side the initials J.W.R., James Wolfe Ripley who inspected during the years 1843-1855. Even dark steel patina finish to the double ring scabbard, made without the reinforcing throat collar which is correct these early pattern sabers. An additional S&K proof can be seen on one side of the drag, and on the opposite a crown proof. Amazingly the scabbard is fairly dent-free. Overall the sword exhibits normal service wear and use. the leather grip wrapping appears to be original as does the wire binding. There are a few nicks in the cutting edge but nothing terrible for a saber that saw every day of the American Civil War.