U.S. Model 1840 Heavy Cavalry (Dragoon) Saber, in exceptional condition, manufactured ca. 1843 to 1859 by W. H. Horstmann & Sons. The grip is made of wood, covered with black leather and bound with brass wire which remains tight, the black leather bearing some minute, nearly-indiscernible chips. The brass hand guard is of the 'Gothic' or 'half basket' type. The knuckle-bow is formed with two bars joining together to making a small oval shaped quillon. Blade length 35.75 in., 1.75 in. wide and nearly spotless, exhibiting no corrosion and few marks of any sort. It is marked by makers 'W.H. Horstmann & Sons' of Philadelphia. Horstmann emigrated to the United States from Germany in 1816, and the firm was mostly an import and sales company, purchasing complete swords or blades from Europe. The iron scabbard shows no damage at all but for some light surface corrosion and lighter than normal wear. A prime example of this classic sword.