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SOLD ITEMS ARCHIVE 4 |
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A lovely mid-Victorian light
cavalry officer's sword by Manton. Manton were a top quality
outfitter who specialised in fitting out East India
Company/Indian Army officers. They seem to have sourced
their swords from various good quality makers and this could
be from Charles Reeves or another good Birmingham maker. The
large 35 inch blade is service sharpened and in great
condition, with deep crisp etching. The hilt is in overall
good condition, with a tiny bit of loss to the shagreen and
some lifting at the pommel end, which should be secured with
glue to prevent it worsening. The hilt is solid on the tang
and this is a fantastic big cavalry sword in the hand, made
for fighting. In its well-fitting scabbard.
SOLD |
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A good quality George V 1897
pattern infantry officer's sword, by Mole. This sword has
one main cosmetic issue, which is the bubbling of the nickel
plating on the guard, but otherwise is in very nice
condition. The blade is bright, with crisp and clear
etching. The hilt is solid on the tang. The shagreen and
extra quality silver grip wire is in very nice condition.
The backstrap and pommel are bright. Even the scabbard is in
good condition and the original leather sword knot is still
in place. The guard could be improved with polishing and
this is a really nice example of a WW1 era infantry
officer's sword, of very good quality.
SOLD |
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An attractive and good quality
Volunteer Artillery officer's sword by Pillin. The
substantial blade is in very nice condition, with clear and
detailed etching. Curiously for a Volunteer Artillery sword
the blade has been service sharpened, which may indicate
that the officer later served in the regular army. The blade
is solid in the hilt. The guard, backstrap and scabbard all
share the same nice dark patina without pitting, which makes
me believe that they were deliberately oil-darkened from
new. This was done on many swords (and firearms) to retard
rust. The shagreen and grip wire is in generally good
condition, except for the loss of the shagreen right at the
foot of the grip, by the pommel. A very nicely proportioned
sword that feels lovely in the hand and is a proper fighting
weapon.
SOLD |
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A rare Wilkinson made Indian cavalry sword, in great
condition. These swords are rare enough, in any condition,
but this is literally the best condition example I have ever
seen. The scabbard is probably not original to the sword
(unknown age), but has been made for it and fits perfectly
(or possibly uses the wooden core of the original scabbard
and has been more recently re-wrapped. The sword itself is
in great condition, with a massive 36 inch bright blade,
un-sharpened. The Wilkinson London attribution is clearly
stamped on the ricasso - this sword was probably made around
1880-1900. The bowl guard has very light pitting but is
otherwise bright. The tulwar-shaped walnut grip is in great
condition, with sharp chequering. The whole hilt assembly is
rock solid and the original leather washer is present. These
swords are really rare and it is a strange coincidence that
I have two at the same time. As stated, I have never seen an
example in such good condition before.
SOLD |
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A Napoleonic era Georgian 1796
pattern light cavalry officer's sabre, by celebrated maker
Henry Osborn (who designed the 1796 sabre with Le Marchant).
This is a lovely sword, with it's broad sweeping blade and
conservative yet detailed hilt. The grip is leather-wrapped,
the leather being in good condition for the age, with silver
wire remaining. The ferule has lined detailing and the
knucklebow has pleasing bevels. The blade has salt and
pepper patina, with a couple of spots of pitting and the
hilt is solid on the tang, though as is usual with this
model of sword the guard is a bit loose now. The negatives
of this sword are the chip out of the toe of the wooden
grip, which someone has tried to fill in the past, and the
tang peen and lateral rivet have been tampered with,
presumably when trying to fix the grip. Therefore this sword
is priced as 'in need of restoration' - it's a great and
highly desirable sabre, but missing the scabbard and in need
of some attention to bring it up to full potential. In a
perfect state it would be considerable more. Still a great
example of the type which may have seen service in the wars
against Napoleon, by a top maker.
SOLD |
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An attractive Victorian artillery
officer's sword. This is a clean sword overall, with a
bright blade, crisp etching and the hilt and scabbard in
good condition. Being retailed by an outfitter in Gosport,
it is likely that this was supplied to an officer of one of
the artillery garrisons on the South coast near Portsmouth
or Gosport. The officer could have been regular Army or part
of the Volunteer Artillery. The blade has very nice etching
and is solid in the hilt. The grip is in good condition and
the sword sheaths well in the scabbard.
SOLD |
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A late-Victorian light cavalry
officer's sword. This example in good condition, with nickel
plating remaining to most of the steel parts of the sword.
The blade is plain, without etching, and plated. It is solid
in the hilt. The hilt is in good condition, with all the
shagreen in good condition and original dark colour. It has
most of the grip wire, but seems to have lost one strand all
the way down. The sword comes with a field service scabbard,
intended to be worn with a Sam Browne belt, which probably
dates the sword to the 1880s or 1890s. There is a chance
that this was intended for a Royal Artillery officer, but
having a plan blade it is impossible to say. My feeling is
probably light cavalry officer.br>
SSOLD |
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An 1853 pattern cavalry trooper's
sword, made by Bleckman of Solingen, with War Department and
India acceptance stamps. This was clearly made on contract
in Solingen and supplied to an Indian cavalry regiment,
probably in the 1860-1880 period. The sword is in nice
overall condition, with a bright blade, some localised
pitting, all solid in the hilt. The guard has some pitting,
but is solid. The leather grips are in very good condition
for the age, showing the original chequering, secure on the
tang rivets. No scabbard, but a good example of the pattern.
An impressive big sword in the hand, with a 35 inch blade.br>
SSOLD |
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A Rifles officer's sword, retailed
by Royal outfitter Hawkes & Co. This is a very nice quality
sword, probably for regular Army rather than Rifle
Volunteers, due to the quality and service sharpened blade.
The hilt and scabbard were nickel plated and so are in great
condition - bright and clean. The shagreen and grip wire is
in top condition. The blade is in good condition with mild
patination (it is the only metal part of the sword which is
not nickel plated!), slightly faded etching, but mostly
clear. The blade has been very much service sharpened and
has a few little dings to the cutting edge. The number 1868
on the spine of the blade could indicate the year of
manufacture - I would have placed this sword a little
earlier than that, but 1868 is plausible. A nice sword and a
good example of the type by one of Great Britain's most
illustrious outfitters (hence the Royal Warrant etched on
the blade).br>
SSOLD |
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An intriguing and rare
non-regulation early Victorian infantry officer's sword.
This sword is somewhat of a mystery, but we can narrow down
the parameters for identifying it. Certainly it's an
interesting research piece, as well as being an attractive
and rare sword. Immediately notable is the XXIII (23) on the
guard. 23rd what though? My guess is an Indian infantry
regiment. Next to note is that the form of the guard and
backstrap are than of an infantry officer (not Rifles), but
made of steel instead of brass. This often (though not
always) marks a sword as being for a British officer of
Indian infantry. Next to note is the folding inner guard -
this probably puts the date of the sword before 1860. The
fullered blade probably puts the date after 1845. There is
no sign of there ever having been any shagreen covering to
the hardwood (walnut?) grip and this is again a sign of
colonial service. The sword is in average condition for the
age. The blade is functionally fine and straight, with
service sharpening evident. The etching is however very
faint and it seems that the officer's initials or crest were
once visible, but now so faded as to be illegible
unfortunately. The guard is in nice condition and the drop
spring functions. The grip is generally in good condition,
but with a chip missing from the toe at the pommel end -
probably due to past tightening of the pommel nut. This
seems to be old damage perhaps during its service life, from
the colour of the wood. A fascinating sword that may have
seen action in India around the time of the Sikh Wars or
Indian Mutiny. With later style of scabbard which fits well,
maybe indicating prolonged service use.br>
SSOLD |
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A wonderful light cavalry
officer's sword, marked to the Prince of Wales' Own 10th
Hussars - a highly popular and collected regiment which
served in the Crimean War. This sword certainly dates to
after that period, as it has the Sevastopol battle honour on
the blade, alongside the Peninsula War and the Battle of
Waterloo. It probably dates to the 1860s or 70s. Supplied by
H. Poole & Co - a military tailor, it is difficult to say
who this sword was made by, but given the etching and proof
slug I would say almost certainly a Birmingham maker and
quite probably Reeves. The blade is in good condition with
crisp and detailed etching. The blade surface is bright with
only a slight patina, but there are a few nicks to the
cutting edge (which is un-sharpened). The blade is solid in
the hilt. The hilt is in good condition, with some light
pitting to the guard, but the shagreen only shown minimal
signs of wear from its career and the silver wire in in good
condition. The scabbard has a crease in it, but the sword
sheathes well. A very desirable sword and with a little
cleaning a very respectable display piece.br>
SSOLD |
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A 20th century Nepalese kukri. While this appears to be a
relatively modern made example, it is clearly a well made
one and on a par with antiques. The blade is plates, but is
sharp and appears to be good steel. The scabbard is in good
conditon and everything is present and correct. The
decorated horn handle suggests that this was a higher cost
piece than the basic ones. A nice proper kukri, ready to use
on your trip into the mountains.br>
SSOLD |
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A Prussian Model 1852 cavalry trooper's sabre. This example
bears no visible maker's mark, but is clearly the Prussian
pattern. The large blade is bright and in good condition. It
is solid in the hilt and the entire sword is very imposing
and robust. The hilt and scabbard have matching levels of
surface rust which has resulted in light pitting - both
would clean up, but I have left them alone more or less. The
guard is strangely painted - as I have no idea if this has
some special significance and it seems to have been done in
period, I have left the paint there. It could however be
removed and the guard polished. The leather grip covering is
intact, though the finger-loop has rotted away. This is an
impressive sword in functionally sound condition, in need of
some restoration work to bring it up to display standard.br>
SSOLD |
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A Chinese dao, probably dating to the Boxer Rebellion. This
is a large and heavy piece, with a very chunky single-edged
blade. There is a pleasing patina to the blade and the grip
and pommel are solid on the tang. The guard does move around
on the tang a bit, though the rest of the hilt is tight, so
this is more or less cosmetic. There is some original braid
remaining to the grip - most examples of these types of
swords lack any grip covering now. The guard and pommel are
rough-forged - it looks like pitting, but I believe that
they were just roughly made like that, as these were
mass-produced weapons for common soldiers. An imposing piece
of Chinese and colonial history.br>
SSOLD |
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A lovely Wilkinson 1821 pattern
heavy cavalry officer's sword, recorded to a named officer.
The officer in question was Vincent Thomas Eyre. He was born
in 1843 at Italy, the son of Vincent Anthony Eyre and Jane
Huddleston. He married Barbara Agnes Caroline Giffard in
1873 at London, England. He died on 26 September 1893. He
gained the rank of Captain in the service of the 6th
Inniskilling Dragoons. He lived at Lindley Hall,
Leicestershire, England. Commissioned in May 1863 into the
67th South Hampshire Reg of Foot, made Lieut in Oct 1867,
then transferred in 1868 as a Captain into the 6th Dragoons
(when this sword must have been purchased). In April 1877 he
joined the Leicestershire Yeomanry. The sword itself is in
good condition generally, but would benefit from some light
restoration/cleaning. The blade is nice, having been
protected in the scabbard and retains deep crisp etching. It
is solid in the hilt. The hilt and scabbard exhibit light
pitting and dark patina, but are solid and complete. The
grip is in quite good condition, with almost all the
shagreen - just small area of wear from carrying for years.
A few of the thinner silver wire strands are gone, but the
thickest central strand is all present. A very nice
attributed sword, of top quality.br>
SSOLD |
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A Victorian Durham Artillery
Volunteers officer's sword, with officer's initials etched
on the blade. This is a nice sword, with a blade in
excellent condition, showing crisp etching and attribution
to unit and owner. The proof slug indicates that it is the
work of top maker Pillin of London and the sword was
retailed through W. W. White of Woolwich. The blade is solid
in the hilt and the hilt and scabbard are in overall good
condition with light pitting to guard and scabbard. The
shagreen of the grip is all present, though most of the grip
wire has come away. A good quality sword probably dating to
the 1880s.br>
SSOLD |
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A Victorian Artillery Volunteers
officer's sword, with dedication and date to the blade. This
sword is in good condition, with a bright well-etched blade
showing the initials of the giver and receiver, as well as
the 1867 date and battalion designation. The THAV probably
indicated the Tower Hamlets Artillery Volunteers. It may be
possible to trace the officer from army lists. There are
some strands of the grip wire missing, but otherwise the
grip is in good condition with all the shagreen. The hilt is
solid on the tang and the scabbard is in nice condition with
a dark patina matching the guard.br>
SSOLD |
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A 19th century Indian bullova fighting axe. This is a nice
example - the head can turn on the shaft, but it is possible
to wedge it solid with the existing elements. The iron is in
nice condition with engraved floral decoration visible. The
bamboo shaft is equally in good condition, unusually having
lots of script having been added in at least two different
hands. Presumably it is possible to translate this. These
fighting axes were used in more rural parts of India by
tribal groups, probably usually in conjunction with spears
and shields. A nice piece and these are not very common -
this being in overall good condition.br>
SSOLD |
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A lovely early to mid-18th century
Colichemarde smallsword. This example may or may not be
British and was probably made for a military officer around
1720-1750, with its utilitarian and undecorated steel guard
and pommel. The grip is equally un-fancy, with the original
cord binding remaining on the wooden grip. This design makes
the sword rather less common than the usual ornate civilian
examples. The cord of the grip is somewhat loose now, though
it doesn't really affect holding the sword. The grip and
pommel are secure on the tang, but there is a little
movement to the guard due to the fabric or leather washer
which would have sat under the blade shoulder being lost
with age (a new washer could remedy this). The blade is
around 28 inches long and is in great condition, with a very
broad Colichemarde forte at the base. On this section there
is engraved decoration on both sides which seems as though
it is significant, showing a man's head and shoulders in a
fancy hat. This is a lovely and highly desirable smallsword,
intended to be used, not just worn. This smallsword has been
featured in several of my videos on YouTube.br>
SSOLD |
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A Rifles officer's sword, retailed
by Stephens and with the officer's crest and initials etched
on the blade. This sword is unresearched, but given the
characteristic crest of the Lamb of God and the initials of
HED, he should not be too difficult to identify from Hart's
Annual Army Lists. The sword is overall in bright and clean
condition, although there are some areas of shallow dark
pitting on the blade, presumably where rust was allowed to
form and was then polished out. The scabbard is in good
condition and the leather washer is still present to the
guard. The hilt is solid on the tang and the shagreen and
wire grip is in excellent condition. A very presentable
Rifles officer's sword, with research potential.br>
SSOLD |
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An Indian infantry officer's sword, probably for the state
of Kotah. This is a rare piece and probably dates to the mid
to late-19th century, when several small princely states in
India were semi-independent from British rule, but emulated
British uniforms and equipment. The overall style of the
sword is clearl emulating the 1854 pattern British infantry
officer's sword, but this is probably locally made and it
bears the emblem of what seems to be Kotah. There is also
some text added to the guard. The condition is average - the
blade has some pitting, more on one side than the other, the
hilt is overall quite good, just with a few chips to the
pommel end of the hardwood grip. There is not grip covering
and there clearly never was any. The grip wire is present
and the scabbard is in nice condition. The hilt is fairly
tight on the tang, with just a little movement. A very
interesting and rare sword, worthy of further research.br>
SSOLD |
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A late-Victorian 1896 pattern
cavalry officer's sword. This is a clean and tidy example in
good condition. There is a little light pitting near the tip
of the blade, but otherwise the blade is bright and clear,
with crisp etching. The hilt is bright and in great
condition, with all the shagreen and everything is solid on
the tang. The scabbard is also in good condition and even
the original leather sword knot is present. No indication of
maker or retailer.br>
SSOLD |
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An attractive and good quality
1897 pattern infantry officer's sword, retailed by Hawkes &
Co, with initials etched to the blade from one person to
another. Research may throw up some possible candidates of
officers who could have owned this sword. Hawkes were a
quality retailer and bought their swords from good makers.
This George V era sword is somewhat narrower than average
examples, both in blade and grip, but it is not piquet
weight and has the proved slug, so is a proper fighting
weapon of WW1 era. In fact the result is a rather more
nimble thrusting weapon than the typical 1897 pattern. The
scabbard and sword knot are in good condition for the age,
the blade is quite bright with clear etching. The blade is
solid in the hilt. The guard has a grey age patina, but is
in good condition and the grip is in equally good condition,
with all the shagreen and only one strand of wire missing. A
nice example of the era with a couple of unusual features.br>
SSOLD |
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A Victorian light cavalry
officer's sword. This example is rather lighter than average
and features a blade which has been nickel plated. The
plating has rendered the decorative blade etching quite
faint, although still visible. Though it also means that the
blade is still bright and clean. The hilt is in reasonable
condition, with nearly all of the shagreen remaining.br>
SSOLD |
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A scarce Victorian 1892 pattern infantry officer's sword, by
Hawkes of London. In 1892 a new pattern of blade was introduced
for infantry officers, but it would not be until 1895 that a new
hilt was designed to accompany it. Therefore the 1892 pattern of
sword was only manufactured for 3 years and there are not many
remaining (except for the RAMC, who still used this pattern
until WW1). We can therefore say with certainty that this sword
dates to 1892-1895 and from the proof slug it is likely that the
blade was made by Wilkinson on contract for Hawkes, who were a
top class military outfitter in London. The sword is complete
with its Indian service style scabbard and leather sword knot.
The hilt is in very good condition, with the brass of the guard
in good shape and the shagreen and grip wire all good. The blade
is rather worn, presumably from years of service, though most of
the etching is still just about visible. Not a common sword and
a nice example of the type, of good quality.br>
SSOLD |
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An infantry officer's sword by Wilkinson, numbered to 1865 and
unresearched. This is a tidy example of the sword type, with a
clean blade, some patina, crisp excellent quality etching and
the blade solid in the hilt. The brass guard is in good shape
and the grip is in great condition, with all the shagreen and
wire present. Sadly the scabbard is missing, but the leather
washer is present on the guard. I very nice relatively early
Wilkinson.br>
SSOLD |
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A British Napoleonic infantry officer's sabre, in the style of
the 1796 pattern light cavalry sabre, by celebrated maker
Runkell of Solingen. These are often referred to as flank
officers' sabres and they were purchased by infantry officers
who did not like the regulation spadroon. The overall shape is
very similar to the light cavalry sabre, but they tend to be
lighter and narrower. Many are shorter than the cavalry swords,
but this has a 32.5 inch blade, so is almost the same size,
though it is narrower and lighter. The blade of this sword is in
good condition overall, with the engraving clear to see,
including the maker's name on the spine, the GR monogram (for
George III) and the British Royal coat of arms and motto, as
well as some floral decoration. The hilt unfortunately is rather
battered and has had some restoration work done on it in the
past, to reinstate the leather washer and fill gaps in the
wooden grip. The end result is not bad - the hilt is solid on
the tang, without movement, and the grip wire is all present. It
is important to note that that this hilt has been tampered with
and a good restorer could probably improve on this job greatly.
I think the quality of the blade would make it a worthwhile
project and this sword survived a fascinating period of history
- who knows what stories it could have told! Priced according to
the condition of the grip, which makes it a bit of a bargain in
my view.
SOLD |
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A very desirable and rare early Madras Artillery officer's
sword, by Hart, from around the 1850s. This example is in the
foot artillery length, with a 32.5 inch blade, which features
very detailed and profuse etching. The blade has been service
sharpened right down to the ricasso and it is housed in a wood
and leather field scabbard which is later in period but fits the
blade perfectly, suggesting it was made for this sword and the
sword perhaps had a long service life. Being an Indian-serving
officer's sword and being service sharpened, it is likely to
have had a very interesting career. The blade is solid in the
hilt. The blade and hilt have a dark patina all over and a
little pitting here and there, but the blade etching is still
very crisp. The grip is in pretty good condition, with 95% of
the shagreen and only a couple of strands on wire missing. The
hilt has a somewhat unusual shape, the guard being narrower than
normal and the pommel being angled unusually. A very desirable
sword that is a pleasure in the hand.br>
SSOLD |
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An Italian M1860 cavalry sword made by Putsch & Son of Solingen.
This is a nice solid example, with a blade is good bright
condition, clearly showing the maker's mark. The blade is solid
in the hilt. The grip pleasingly has all its leather covering
still, though with most of the grip wire missing. The iron parts
of the hilt and scabbard have become a bit rusted and pitted,
but this could be cleaned up a lot.br>
NNEW |
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A WW1 George V Royal Artillery officer's sword by Wilkinson.
This example has the hexagonal 'best quality' proof slug,
meaning the officer paid extra for elaborate blade etching,
which is still evident here. The sword is unresearched, but the
records may reveal who the officer was. The blade is service
sharpened, so I presume the original owner served in WW1. The
sword is in overally good condition, with a bright clean blade,
most of the etching clear. The nickel plating of the guard has
lifted in spots, but is mostly intact. The shagreen of the grip
is in good condition, though there is some loss to the thinner
strands of the silver grip wire. The hilt is solid on the tang
and this sword is sound and functional. No scabbard
unfortunately.br>
SSOLD |
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A very nice quality mid-Victorian light cavalry officer's sword
by excellent maker Robert Mole & Sons of Birmingham. The maker's
name is not on the blade, but the proof slug is unmistakenly
theirs. The blade is in almost flawless condition, with bright
original mirror polish, contrasting with perfect frost etching.
The blade has not been service sharpened and is almost like new.
The guard and scabbard would benefit from a clean, as there is a
light dusting of surface rust from storage prior to it coming to
me. This is superficial though and the metal of hilt and
scabbard are good for the age. Everything is tight and solid on
the tang. The grip is in very good condition also, with all the
shagreen and grip wire in place. The original sword knot is even
still present! This has however almost perished from age (a
fairly rare survival at all on Victorian swords) - I would
recommend removing it and storing it safely. The scabbard also
has what remains of leather cavalry belt slings. A very lovely
sword in great condition, with a little work required to clean
the hilt and scabbard.br>
SSOLD |
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An outstanding Rifles officer's sword, named and with regimental
designation. The first thing to strike you about this sword is
the condition, particularly of the blade, which is almost like
new, showing the original high mirror polish contrasted with
frost etching. I believe the blade to be the work of Reeves of
Birmingham. The next most notable thing about the sword is that
it is named to Honourary Surgeon William Smith, and both the
blade and guard are marked to the XXXIX (39th). It is unusual to
have a sword named to a surgeon, and to have the regiment noted
as well is a bonus. But therein lies the mystery - the 39th
what? The bugle on the guard is an unusual circular form
sometimes seen on Indian officers' swords and the crown is not
the conventional type - a Bourbon crown? This does not seem to
relate to the famous 39th Rifles established in 1887 as this
sword appears to be earlier than that - I would say it dates to
the 1850s or 1860s. Also, I cannot find any reference to an Army
surgeon with this name. A volunteer rifles outfit maybe?
Canadian rifles? Clearly some fun research to do for the buyer.
The hilt and scabbard are both in good condition. The shagreen
and silver grip wire is all in very good condition. The hilt and
everything is all tight. Overall a lovely sword, in superb
condition, with fascinating research potential.br>
SSOLD |
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A late-Victorian infantry officer's sword in clean condition.
This is a tidy example, probably made by Pillin of London, which
has had the blade plated. This means that the blade is super
bright and without any patina, but it has made the etching a bit
obscured - though you can still see most of it. The shape of the
hilt and style of scabbard probably indicate a date for this
sword in the 1880s or even early 1890s. The scabbard is a nice
feature, being an early form of field service scabbard, as first
developed in India. The hilt, including the shagreen and grip
wire, is in good condition. There is a little movement on the
tang. A bright and clean example of the pattern.br>
SSOLD |
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An exceptional 1896 pattern Wilkinson calvary officer’s sword,
with patent solid hilt, numbered 43136 for 1911 (one of the
latest patent hilts I have seen). The sword is in fantastic
condition with only some very minor pitting on the tip of the
sword and marks from service sharpening, presumably for WW1. The
ricasso of the blade bears Wilkinson’s best quality hexagonal
proof slug with clear and detailed etchings. The sword is
service sharpened as mentioned and still remains quite sharp.
The hilt is in virtually perfect condition, nickel plated in
high polish and fine wire-bound chequered patent grips. Housed
in brown leather Service Dress scabbard. There is a bend to the
leather drag of the scabbard from standing too long. Being the
top quality and highly desirable patent solid hit, the whole
sword is of course solid and sound. A truly gorgeous sword, from
that last few years that swords were still expected to be used
in combat by British forces. This sword is currently
unresearched.br>
SSOLD |
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An attractive 19th century tulwar of higher than average
quality. The blade, which is in nice condition, features a well
bevelled sharp edge, with engraved decoration to the surface and
inlayed brass sections in the spine. Rather an unusual feature.
The blade is solid in the hilt. The hilt sadly is rather pitted,
but it is of good quality and solid. The pronounced quillons and
knucklebow are robust and the flat decorated disc pommel is
firm. The scabbard has been re-wrapped obviously, but in the
original style, retaining the original core and fittings.
SOLD |
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A lovely Rifles officer's sword, by Wilkinson, dated to 1887 and
named. This numbered Wilkinson is unresearched, but the
officer's name is kindly etched on the blade - C Little,
Commandant of the Berar Volunteer Rifles 1887. The sword itself
has a grey patina overall, with a few patches of light pitting,
but is in nice condition generally and totally solid. The blade
has clear etching overall, is straight and solid in the hilt. It
is a rather beefy sword of chunkier proportions than average.
The guard is extra detailed with 'optional extra' engraving
around the Rifles horn, featuring palm fronds. The grip is in
very nice condition, with all the shagreen tight and silver grip
wire. Overall a very desirable sword in decent condition, worthy
of research.br>
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An 1853 pattern cavalry trooper's sword made by Weyersberg of
Solingen, without scabbard. This example is in fairly good
condition, in need of some light cleaning. The blade is solid
and straight, of course tight in the hilt as it is a Reeves
Patent solid tang (full width). The guard is in good shape
without notable bends and the leather grips are secure on the
tang. They still show much original chequering and are only very
slightly dried out and shrunk - they would benefit from some
leather food. A decent example of an increasingly hard to
procure sword type, made famous by the Charge of the Light
Brigade.
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An unresearched and unrestored late Victorian Royal Artillery
officer's sword by Wilkinson, numbered 35867 for 1898. This
sword has a very clean bright blade, with deep clear etching all
over. The hilt and scabbard have a light crust of dirt and
superficial light rust, which should be cleaned to bring the
sword up to top standard. The grip is in fairly good condition,
just with a tiny bit of shagreen loss at the pommel. The blade
is rock solid in the hilt. The scabbard matches the sword and it
sheathes well. An unresearched sword with lots of potential.
Restored, this could be used for a modern serving Royal
Artillery officer.br>
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A European smallsword with steel faceted hilt. This sword is in
average condition, with light pitting in parts, though the
triangular hollowground blade is straight and complete, as is
the hilt. The hilt is a bit loose on the tang probably because
it has lost a leather or fabric washer from the tang shoulder
with the guard and I would recommend this sword as a restoration
project - dismounting the hilt would enable cleaning and
remounting more solidly with the replacement of a washer. Or
this sword would be perfectly fine being left alone for display
purposes. I do not know if the grip covering is original - it
appears in rather too good condition, but it is possible
original. The guard and pommel feature attractive facets which
would be brought out by careful cleaning.br>
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An 18th or 19th century Indian tulwar, in solid but very pitted
condition. This sword has pitting all over and while the blade
is solid in the hilt, the pitting is so deep in parts that I
would not recommend it for cutting or even drilling. This would
look fine as part of a display however and it is priced
according to the condition. It is nevertheless an old and once
good quality sword.br>
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An Indonesian or Malaysian golok knife. This is a nice example
of fairly high status quality judging by the fittings. Probably
19th or early-20th century. The blade has even patina which
suggest a good age and the horn hilt is nicely executed. All
solid and tight. The lovely scabbard features horn and white
metal/silver alloy decorative and structural elements.br>
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A top quality Wilkinson Royal Artillery sword, dated to 1879 and
with the officer's initials and crest to the blade, in need of
restoration. This sword was made for Cuthbert Edward Goulburn,
who was commissioned into the Royal Artillery in 1879 and went
on to become a Brigadier-General. He served in the Boer War and
WW1. The sword is presented here in totally unrestored
condition, with active rust to hilt and blade and no scabbard
present. There is pitting resulting from the rust, but most of
the blade etching remains clear, including the Royal Artillery
motif and Goulburn's crest and initials. The blade is service
sharpened and solid in the hilt. The hilt is basically in good
shape except for the rust, the shagreen of the grip is 95%
present and the grip wire is all there (silver under the dark
patina which requires cleaning). This is a 'project' sword, but
a top quality one with lots of research potential - it is priced
according to the quality and provenance, balanced against the
condition and work required.br>
SSOLD |
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A Wilkinson top quality (hexagonal slug) 1912 pattern cavalry
officer's sword dating to WW1. The serial number for this sword
(48104) is unresearched, but dates to the war years and the
sword is service sharpened accordingly. The scabbard is lacking
and the sword is in average condition, having some pitting to
the guard, the blade being bright, but the etching is rubbed and
worn, and the shagreen is a bit shrunken. Despite this, the
sword is solid and sound and of the best possible quality, with
some of the etching remaining clear. It would probably respond
well to an overall clean and feeding the grip skin. Dating to
WW1 and being the best quality it could hold some great research
potential. A very nice sword in the hand, for its intended
purpose. Replacement scabbards can be bought as this is still
the current pattern in service.br>
SSOLD |
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A Victorian 1889 pattern staff sergeants sword made by
Wilkinson. The 32.5” beefy straight blade is in good condition
with a few areas of staining but retaining most of its original
polish. The tip has some light pitting. The base of the blade is
marked with the issue date of 1891, crown inspection stamps and
the X of the bend test. The quillon is stamped with 5 different
issuing marks suggesting the sword had an active service life.
The hilt is in good condition with no movement. It retains its
wire and the shagreen is undamaged but for a few small paint
marks. The gilt brass guard has been well polished and has a few
patches of discolouration. The scabbard has some patches of old
rust and a big dent at the base but this does not affect the
drawing or sheaving of the sword and is overall sound. The 1889
pattern is increasingly rare as it was only issued between 1899
and 1897 when the new pattern with the dumbbell blade began to
be issued.br>
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1890 pattern British Cavalry troopers sword. The blade (34 1/4"
long and at 1 1/4" at the base) is in good condition and despite
some staining there is no pitting and it retains much of its
original polish. It has been service sharpened both front edge
and the last few inches of the back of the blade and has a few
nicks along the blade. It has had a busy life with the War
Department broad arrow and stamp, the Enfield makers inspection
mark and numerous date stamps from 1893 to 1898. There is the
bend test mark and a faint unit marking on the hit with what
appears to be a D G for the Dragoon Guards. The hilt reflects
this hard service and the leather grips are somewhat eroded,
although still firm on the tang and serviceable. No scabbard
unfortunately. May make a good cutter for someone.br>
SSOLD |
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An interesting pair of swords of the Rifle Brigade one marked to
the Middlesex Rifles and the other simply marked to the Rifle
Brigade. What makes them unusual is that they are both hilted
with the 1821 pattern style hilt which was generally only used
for cavalry or artillery. With their unusual hilts (maybe
officer preference or a regimental peculiarity) and rifle
etching it is likely the two are a pair. The broader of the two
with the stepped pommel still has the rifle brigade cypher and
the light infantry bugle but overall the etching is faded and
the retailer's name is illegible. The blade has some notches
along its length and is stained and lightly pitted. The sword
that has the scabbard has the Middlesex Rifles etching and the
Light Infantry bugle and the etching is crisper, although faded
in part. The blade has a proof slug, and some minor staining. No
makers name can be made out. The scabbard is patinated but
sound. Both hilts have some movement - the broader bladed one
because the wood has shrunk around the tang and the scabbarded
one with a little movement of the guard itself. Both are
potential restoration projects with repeening a possibility. The
Middlesex rifles were formed in 1881 with two regular battalions
and four militia/volunteer.br>
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A Victorian Royal Engineers officer's sword by Mole of
Birmingham. This example is missing its scabbard and the blade
has very dark patina and light pitting. However it is solid and
sound, the excellent Mole construction meaning the hilt is tight
on the tang and the blade is functionally in good condition,
straight and perhaps showing service sharpening. Some of the
etching is still visible, despite the patina. The brass scroll
hilt is in reasonable shape and the grip is okay - some
shrinkage to the shagreen and patches of loss. A desirable sword
that is in theoretically usable, if not the best aesthetic
condition.br>
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A 19th century British smallsword in good condition. The blade
is lovely on this example; straight, clean and bright. The hilt
is also in very good condition, made of some sort of cast alloy
with classical decoration. The grip is a bit loose on the tang.
SOLD |
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A hanger of unknown provenance. The hilt is a type, with cast
iron grip and two-bar brass stirrup hilt, that was carried by
some support troops (eg. Medical) from the Napoleonic era
onwards. The straight blade of this example has been beaten up
and the hilt assembly is loose. The scabbard has been repaired.
Either a restoration or curio piece and priced accordingly. May
even be useful for parts if someone has a suitable spare blade.
Or fine as a wall hanger.br>
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A French Chassepot M1866 bayonet and scabbard. A tidy example
which needs a good clean. The blade is nice and bright with
visible inspection stamps (though no maker's writing on the
spine). The guard and scabbard need a bit of work with wire wool
and oil, but should come up nicely. The brass has thick patina,
which could easily be polished bright if desired. The spring
catch works perfectly. Nice untouched example.
SOLD |
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SOLD ARCHIVE 3 |
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SOLD ARCHIVE 2 |
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SOLD ARCHIVE 1/strong> |
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