Russia, Imperial. A Rare M1881 Dragoon Sabre, St. Anna Award Variant, German-Made Example

A rare and well-preserved M1881 Dragoon Shashka (sabre, literally “long knife”), measuring 87 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 68.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to both the tip and lower edge. A wide fuller runs the majority of the length of each side of the blade, which is also decorated with intricate acid-etched arabesque latticework surrounding a knight in full armour on the obverse, and an overlapping sabre, drum, and bugle on the reverse. The obverse ricasso is stamped with a mark of “SOLINGEN”, indicating German manufacture, above a production date of “1891”. The reverse ricasso is stamped with a mark of “EISENHAUER”, indicating that the blade has been quality-tested for cutting power against iron. An additional inscription of “ORDER W. SABININ MOSKAU” is visible on the spine, indicating retail and distribution by Vladimir Sabinin of Moscow. It sits securely within a multi-piece hilt featuring a brass crossguard, hand guard, and pommel. Engraved into both sides of the crossguard is an inscription of “ЗА ХРАБРОСТЬ” (“FOR BRAVERY”). An etched and enameled depiction of the Order of St. Anna is visible on the pommel, indicating that the sabre was awarded to a recipient of this distinction, while two pieces of ribbed dark brown wood compose the handle grip. Accompanying the sabre is its original scabbard, constructed of a boiled and black leather shaft. Brass fixtures are secured to the tip, upper quarter, and throat, with one retaining a loop for the accommodation of a hanger. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include running and sharpening marks to the blade with some loss of nickel plating near the tang, surface chipping and scratching to the handle, denting of the scabbard fixtures, and minor fatigue throughout the leather of the shaft. This scarce and high-quality sabre, privately purchased by a recipient of a notable bravery distinction, remains in a near extremely fine condition.