Prussian Kavallerie-Säbel M.1852

[Fritz]

A good example of a presentation variation of a Prussian Kavallerie-Säbel M.1852. Newly introduced due to the experiences in the first Schleswig-Holstein war of 1849/50, when hand wounds became prevalent, a new basket hilt was conceived. This was a popular campaign weapon, even favoured by infantry officers as late as 1870, and otherwise kept as a service weapon by officers up till 1914.

The ordonnance version of this weapon was heavier and stronger, this example is simply a presentation piece. All fittings are of nickel plated iron. The scabbard has lost it*s scabbard throat and fixing screws and has the old style of two suspension rings, these moveable as per the officer's version. The grip covering is also of sharkskin or rayskin and bound in threefold silver wire, a typical officer's example. The blade is of fine polished steel with floral motives engraving, the leather washer undoubtedly a replacement. This weapon was used by all types of cavalry, except for the Kürassiers. From an auction in Munich in 1984.