Civil War sword experts?

[Camster]

I have a Model of 1860 Cavalry sabre.On what I will call the handguard,toward the rear of the grip,is stamped in large characters; C1 58. Is this a unit marking,or does it have any other significance? Thank you.

 

[handejector]

Likely a unit marking.
Who made it? Date?
Pic?

 

[PA Reb]

I have a Model of 1860 Cavalry sabre.On what I will call the handguard,toward the rear of the grip,is stamped in large characters; C1 58. Is this a unit marking,or does it have any other significance? Thank you.

Its more than likely an inspectors mark but a photo would be helpful.

 

[jlrhiner]

I went through my list of CW proof marks (which is by no means complete) and there is none listed like that. Very few numbers and almost no symbols.

 

[Camster]

I'm acquainted with inspector's marks,the sword has several of them along with a larger "US"-these characters are much larger,about 3/8" tall.
It was made by DJ Millard in 1862.My understanding is that is one of 10,000 made for enlisted men.Unfortunately,no scabbard.
I figure a unit marking,rack number type thing...though I've only seen a few other CW swords,none with it,I was wondering if this marking identified it as a later reissue or something.

 

[PA Reb]

I'm acquainted with inspector's marks,the sword has several of them along with a larger "US"-these characters are much larger,about 3/8" tall.
It was made by DJ Millard in 1862.My understanding is that is one of 10,000 made for enlisted men.Unfortunately,no scabbard.
I figure a unit marking,rack number type thing...though I've only seen a few other CW swords,none with it,I was wondering if this marking identified it as a later reissue or something.

If you want, I can e-mail you the e-mail address of a fellow who would definitely know. Let me know.

 

[Muley Gil]

I believe there is a sword forum out there. I've got a couple that I need to research. One of those "round to it" things.

 

[handejector]

these characters are much larger,about 3/8" tall.
It was made by DJ Millard in 1862.

Good saber. A bit less common than others.
I believe those are unit markings since I think you indicate they are toward the pommel.

I was wondering if this marking identified it as a later reissue or something.

Probably. They were issued for decades after the Recent Unpleasantries. Seldom marked during the war, they would more likely be marked in peacetime.

 

[Camster]

Thank you all for your help and input.
My desire is to give this to a lifelong friend who I know would enjoy it.I'm trying to provide as much info to go along with it as I can.

 

[johngross]

More than likely the C1 58 is some type of unit or "rack" number. For example it could represent Company C, 1st Regiment, soldier number 58. Since these sabers did not have serial numbers, such markings were a way to deter theft and make the soldier responsible for his equipment.

Unfortunately, without additional information the question arises of which 1st Regiment? 1st NY, 1st PA, 1st MASS, 1st MAINE, etc.

While one would guess that it is a Civil War unit, these sabers continued to be used during the Indian War period, by militia units, etc.

John Gross

 

[handejector]

My desire is to give this to a lifelong friend who I know would enjoy it.I'm trying to provide as much info to go along with it as I can.

Old friend!
How are ya?
Remember us being in Kindergarten together? I always shared my cookies- remember?

 

[35Rem]

Old friend!
How are ya?
Remember us being in Kindergarten together? I always shared my cookies- remember?

Lee was the hairy kid...long arms...