This early production example of Russian Imperial M-1868 artillery trooper's saber, mounted with the regulation 29 1/4 inch long Zlatoust-made blade dated 1868. Single fuller on both sides, marked "Zlatoust 1868" on ricasso. The other side is marked with single "K". Various factory inspection marks are stamped on the ricasso and the guard. Brass hilt with great regimental markings on the crossguard. Brown leather covered grip with single twisted wire wrapping. Steel scabbard with one ring. There are some numbers on the toe. Model 1868 saber was in use for only 12 years, before being superseded by the more familiar Model 1881 sabre. It was also in use by Polish units till the end of 1920s.
Condition: Excellent for its age. Clean blade with no rust or pitting . Solid hilt and excellent grip with all leather and wire present. Steel scabbard covered with uniform brown patina and has only one, almost unnoticeable door ding.
This is a nice example of the uncommon sword, which dates to the Russo-Turkish War and the wars in the Caucasus.
