Rare Civil War Model 1860 Cavalry Saber by Millard

This is a desirable US saber that measures 40 3/4" overall, with a 35" curved, single-edged blade having wide and narrow fullers.  The steel has a bright patina with scattered areas of mild freckling along the surface of both sides.  The ricasso has "US / C.E.W. / 1862" on the obverse, and "(D. J.) MILLARD / (C)LAYVILLE  NY" on the reverse.  The brass counterguard and knucklebow have a pleasant yellow-ochre patina, while the leather grips has minor surface wear and flaking, as well as an intact braided wire wrap.  The saber is housed in an undented original steel scabbard with some minor wear to the ring studs and drag.  D. J. Millard had the smallest contract for Model 1860 Cavalry Sabers: 10,031 sabers; a few hundred less than Providence Tool Co. in Rhode Island.  As a result, they are rarely seen today and are quite desirable.  This example is in very good-fine condition and would make a great addition to any collection.