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M1874 McCellan Saddle 7th Cavalry.

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:300.00 USD Estimated At:600.00 - 1,000.00 USD
M1874 McCellan Saddle 7th Cavalry.
Extremely Rare 1st Pattern M1874 McClellan Saddle, the "Custer" Saddle. The most sought after of all saddles from the Indian Wars period. It is also one of the scarcest by virtue of its being issued to cavalry units stationed in areas of the country that would be the hardest on men and materiel. The First Pattern used the spaded D-rings on each side. This example has a stitched lower quarter strap. The safe on each side clearly shows the flat top of the First Pattern versus the heart shape of the Second Pattern. The rings and foot staples are are all present. The original brass saddle bag stud remains. The brass saddle shield if faintly marked "11 1/2 IN. / SEAT". The front pommel and cantle stitching employs the welt reinforced seam only seen on First Pattern. The cinch was made of 24 strands of 6-ply spun and twisted horsehair rope, knotted on the ends to a leather covered ring. Has model 1859 fenders with Civil War era "R. White U.S, Ord Dept. Sub Inspector." M1885 trapdoor carbine boot attached. Faint "Rock Island Arsenal, 18 G" marked, along with a pair M1885 saddle bags embossed with faint "U.S." markings, a later Company upgrade. Wood stirrup leather covers are embossed with "U.S.", and stamped on the sides " 7 Cav 26". Safes, and the leather covered chinch ring are stamped "H O L O 906" (?). Saddle is complete and sound with wear, and some minor tears,some friction wear to the fenders, carbine boot is sound, the saddle bags are poor, with flaking, and scuffs to the leather, one strap is missing, and two others are broken. Hard to find, This is an very good example of this rare saddle that is seldom available on the market and few are found even in the most advanced Indian War collections. From the Joe Musso Collection.