ORIGINAL 1863 U.S. CIVIL WAR CAVALRY CURB BIT WITH INSPECTOR MARKS For Sale

Beautiful original M1863 U.S. Civil War cavalry curb bit with period correct inspector markings. The first marking is located on the outside bar which faintly reads A BARCLAY from the Newark, NJ saddlery hardware firm of Alexander Barclay & Co in 1863. The second mark is the inspector initials located on the inside bar on the opposite end. This is the “Number 1” of the four sizes of curb bits officially adopted in 1859, by the same board who adopted the McClellan saddle. The Number 1, with the highest arch of the port bar is also known as the Mexican or Ring bit. One feature was a small roller in the port that was thought to act as a pacifier of sorts or at least would stimulate saliva and keep the bit lubricated. Its most significant feature, however, was a large pivoting ring that encircled the horse’s lower jaw when the bit was put in its mouth, tremendously increasing the pressure a rider could apply. These bits were disproportionally used throughout the Civil War due to the huge increase of untrained cavalry troopers who wanted better control over their horses. It measures 5" x 8” and made of cast iron. It also retains most of the gilt finish to the brass US side bosses and the configuration of the bosses confirm this is a government contractor produced bit. Like other pieces of U.S. issue horse equipment, it is a key piece for a cavalry collection and highly sought after among collectors. Thanks for looking and please check out my other listings for more historic collectibles.