DAY 1: Historic Arms & Armor: Revolutionary America
Sat, Jul 18, 2026 11:00AM EDT
Lot 706A
French M1822 Light Cavalry Saber, Châtellerault April 1875, Matching 292 Scabbard
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $25 |
| $100 | $50 |
| $500 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $5,000 |
This is a highly desirable French Model 1822 Light Cavalry Saber, manufactured at the famed Manufacture d’Armes de Châtellerault and dated April 1875 along the spine of the blade. The saber features a long curved single-edged blade with broad fuller and narrow secondary fuller, a brass three-branch cavalry guard, rounded brass pommel, and leather-wrapped grip retaining its wire binding. The spine inscription reads in part “Mre d’Armes de Châtellerault Avril 1875”, confirming French state arsenal production during the early Third Republic. The guard is boldly stamped 292, with additional small inspection or issue markings visible, including what appears to be a possible H beneath the guard.
The saber is accompanied by its steel scabbard, which is especially notable for retaining a matching 292 stamp on the suspension band. This repeated number is significant, as French cavalry sabers were numbered on the guard with corresponding numbers applied to the scabbard fittings, strongly indicating this saber and scabbard have remained associated as a matched numbered set. The scabbard further bears additional markings including AC and 1912. While the exact meaning of the AC stamp cannot be conclusively identified, it is best understood as a later arsenal, inventory, inspection, or possible unit mark. The 1912 marking is particularly interesting, suggesting continued military or institutional use, inspection, or reissue decades after the saber’s original 1875 manufacture. Also retained is an original leather hanger or suspension strap, still attached to the scabbard ring and marked B 992, adding excellent display appeal and further evidence of period service use.
The French Model 1822 Light Cavalry Saber is one of the most iconic and influential European cavalry sword patterns of the 19th century. Its elegant curved Montmorency-style blade, brass guard, and durable fighting form were used by French cavalry, mounted artillery, colonial units, and related mounted services for generations. Although this example post-dates the American Civil War, the Model 1822 pattern was closely related to the cavalry saber tradition that influenced American sword design and remained in French service long after its original adoption.
Produced in April 1875, only a few years after the Franco-Prussian War, this saber represents a strong early Third Republic example of a classic French cavalry weapon. With its clear Châtellerault arsenal inscription, matching 292 saber and scabbard markings, later 1912 service mark, AC inventory or inspection stamp, and original marked leather hanger, this is a far more interesting example than a standard unmarked cavalry saber. A strong and visually compelling piece for collectors of French military swords, cavalry sabers, Franco-Prussian War era arms, WWI-period service weapons, and 19th-century edged weaponry.
Condition
★ ★ ★
Good - Noticeable wear from age and use but remains structurally sound. Considered average condition for most collectibles and memorabilia. Minor imperfections or signs of handling may be present but do not detract from the overall integrity of the item.
Condition assessed using Treasure Trove Auctions’ proprietary grading scale. While we strive for accuracy, all ratings are subjective and based on our best evaluation as determined by a dedicated team of researchers, from expert appraisers to knowledgeable historians and veteran collectors. Full grading details can be found on our Authentication page for reference. For a more in-depth condition report or additional images, please contact us and we will be more than happy to oblige.
Available payment options
If you have not contacted Treasure Trove Auctions 512-221-2540 to arrange payment within 3 days of the time that invoice is sent, we will charge the credit card you used to register for the auction for the amount of your invoice.
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