The US Model 1799 dragoon sabre stands at the foundation of American cavalry standardisation. Produced under a War Department contract by Abel Buell and David Greenleaf of Hartford, Connecticut, it followed Nathan Starr’s earlier 1798 pattern. The sabre is a straightforward fighting weapon with a curved single-edged blade, plain iron stirrup hilt, and the distinctive “US” over “1799” marking on the blade forte. Surviving examples are scarce, and complete swords with original scabbards are even rarer.
Specifications
| Aspect | Typical details |
|---|---|
| Overall length | 39 to 41 inches |
| Blade length | 33.5 to 34.5 inches |
| Blade form | Curved, single-edged; narrow fuller; approx. 7 inch false edge |
| Blade width at hilt | About 1 7/16 inches |
| Hilt | Iron stirrup guard with integral backstrap and cap-pommel; leather over wood grip with twisted wire |
| Markings | Script “US” over “1799” on blade forte |
| Scabbard | Leather with iron mounts; seldom survives intact |
History and Evolution
- 1798: First federal contract awarded to Nathan Starr for 2,000 cavalry sabres.
- 1799: Second contract awarded to Buell & Greenleaf for 1,000 sabres with belts and scabbards. Delivery was inspected by Robert Orr.
- Configuration: Distinct from Starr’s 1798 pattern in hilt and blade details. “US” over “1799” marking confirms identity.
- Later development: Early sabres evolved into heavier 19th-century cavalry models, such as the M1833 and M1840.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- Historically important as one of the earliest US cavalry contracts.
- Balanced curved blade suited for mounted combat.
- Clear federal markings aid identification and authenticity.
Disadvantages
- Very low survivorship; most grips lack original wire or leather.
- Variability between makers complicates attribution.
- Scarcity pushes market prices beyond entry-level collecting.
Comparison with Similar Weapons
| Pattern | Date | Blade | Hilt | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US Model 1798 (Starr) | 1798 | Curved, deep fuller | Iron stirrup | First federal cavalry sabre, larger contract (2,000 made). |
| US Model 1799 (Buell & Greenleaf) | 1799 | Curved, narrow fuller, 7 inch false edge | Iron stirrup with cap-pommel | Smaller contract (1,000 made). Scarcer on today’s market. |
| British 1796 Light Cavalry Sabre | 1796 | Strongly curved, hatchet point | Stirrup guard, leather grip | Influenced American cavalry taste, though not identical. |
| US M1840 Heavy Cavalry Sabre | 1840s | Longer, heavier | Robust iron hilt | Later battlefield sabre, far sturdier than early patterns. |
Legacy
The Model 1799 sabre represents the federal government’s first structured attempt at uniform cavalry arms. Alongside the Starr contract of 1798, it shaped future procurement practices, from inspection stamps to delivery standards. Collectors and museums value it as a tangible link to the early Republic and its frontier military needs.
Where to See
- Connecticut State Library (Hartford): Holds a Buell & Greenleaf 1799 sabre.
- National Museum of American History (Washington, DC): Houses Starr contract sabres for comparison.
- Royal Armouries (UK): Displays related European cavalry swords for context.
Collectors’ Guide and Auction Prices
Authentication Checklist
- Blade markings: Look for “US” over “1799” on the forte.
- Hilt and grip: Iron stirrup hilt with integral backstrap, leather grip, and twisted wire.
- Dimensions: Around 40 inches overall with a 34-inch blade.
- Condition priorities: Original grip, wire, scabbard, and untouched patina are key to value.
Recent Auction Results
- Cottone Auctions (2022): Example sold for 2,400 USD.
- Bonhams (2023): Example with clear markings sold for 2,937 USD.
- Other sales: Typically fall within 2,400 to 3,000 USD depending on condition.
Current Price Ranges
- Fair to good (no scabbard): 2,000 to 3,000 USD.
- Very good (clear marks, with scabbard): 3,000 to 5,000 USD.
Care and Conservation
- Avoid over-cleaning; use light oil on blades.
- Preserve original leather and wire where possible.
- Document marks, measurements, and provenance.
Key Takeaways
- Contracted in 1799 from Buell & Greenleaf, only 1,000 made.
- Features a curved blade, iron stirrup hilt, and “US” over “1799” marking.
- Scarce on the collectors’ market, with prices generally between 2,000 and 5,000 USD.
- A cornerstone for any serious collection of early American military arms.
