an unusual us model 1840 artillery saber

AN UNUSUAL U. S. MODEL 1840 ARTILLERY SABER
BY RICHARD WAGNER
Pictured are two U. S. Model 1840 Enlisted Artillery Sabers, type one, both dated 1847 and
inspected , both by N. P. Ames, of Cabotville, Massachusetts.
Both sabers are exactly alike. However, the saber on the bottom has a scabbard made
entirely of brass, even the rings. This scabbard has a silver wash with worn or oxidized
areas. The saber’s hilt may have had a silver wash but that is inconclusive. If the brass
scabbard is a replacement, it was done long ago since the brass of the hilt and the exposed
areas of brass on the scabbard have matching patina. And if so, why? The two scabbards
are exactly alike to the smallest detail except for the metal material. Possibly the brass
scabbard is an officer’s saber scabbard put on an enlisted saber. Is it possible that the Ames
Company made a limited number of sabers with brass scabbards, officer or enlisted? If this
is true, again. why? The brass scabbard is of substantial construction just like the steel
scabbard but one would think brass would be inferior to steel in standing up to mounted
service.
Are there any more brass scabbards of this type out there? It certainly would be nice to find
others. Speculation can run rampant here. If there is documentation that mentions brass
scabbards I am unaware of it. Just one of the little mysteries that make sword collecting
even more interesting.
Comments invited.