I was offered the other day a sabre briquet at antique market.
I remember somewhere reading that you could tell the relative age by the number of rings/ bands on the handle, this one had 21. I think there were sabres with fewer rings but dont remember if that meant they were later or earlier ? Dont know why I am hesitating at 60 quid anyway but hey. Also it had a number stamped on the bar, which I understand was done when issuing the piece.
Any ideas guys ?
Christopher

Sorry Christopher i'm not sure either
best person to call is Richard. Is it still available to you? The price does appear too good to be true but depends on condition also we have the credi crunch of course, people just need to sell. I have one with a star stamped on the guard but with no other markings.
Good luck
James

Thanks James, yep it doesnt have a scabbard of course which is probably why the chap wasnt asking so much for it, I see where it has become shorter due to sharpening and wear, the steel has the correct patina for its age, I think I will pick it up as its nice to have such a piece of history, and may sell on. I have bought the original charleville (st.etienne) musket from him, again, the feel of the original is different from the pedersoli I have. Just curious about age of the sabre, it must have been Richard who told me originally what to look for.
Cheers
Christopher

Found the answer to my own question, in the osprey french line infantry booklet of all places: 32 rings means a an IX sabre, 28 rings means an X1, sabre.
I think an X1 were made for many years after the napoleonic wars period, so I guess a IX sabre is worth more if you have it.
Cheers
Christopher