Ames Model 1860 Cavalry Officers Sabers are the most eagerly sought after swords by collectors and this beautiful saber with an exceptional scabbard shows why. The hilt is a classic Model 1860 Ames Cavalry Officers example but it is in absolutely wonderful condition; sharkskin grip retains all of its sparkling sharkskin dyed black grip, and with all of the gilt finish remaining on the guard and pommel cap. The blade retains 100% of its charcoal background to the beautiful etching. This wonderful high grade scabbard is a type that is very rarely seen on Ames cavalry sabers. It is composed of a gilt brass body that is beautifully engraved with the classic Ames panoply of arms on the lower third, and having relief cast and engraved suspension ring mounts and boot style drag. Note also that the top suspension mount has a set of double rings a rare feature and the scabbard throat reverse is in very fine needle engraved Ames Mfg Chicopee, which is found on only the finest of their scabbards. Scabbards of this type are more often seen on high grade presentation quality 1850 Staff & Field swords with only a handful of cavalry examples known. It is also found on pages 93-94 of Civil War Cavalry and Artillery Sabers.