This WW1 Infantry Officer’s sword was made by Edward Thurkle and retailed under the name of J. R. Gaunt & Sons of London and Birmingham.
The 83.5cm single edged blade is of dumbbell form with a short, wide single fuller on both sides and a flat spine tapering to a spear point. The order number “15677” is stamped on the spine allowing for identification of the sword’s original owner.
The blade is in near mint condition and crisply etched with foliate scroll-work surrounding the Georgian crown and King George V Royal cypher above a laurel wreath and bow. The obverse bears foliate scroll-work surrounding the Georgian crown and arms above a wreath and bow. The ricasso is inscribed with the maker’s name “J. R. Gaunt & Sons Limited, Late Edward Thurkle London & Birmingham.” The obverse ricasso bears the Thurkle proof stud above the letter “G.” The blade is firm in the hilt.
The steel bowl guard is of 1897 pattern and bears the royal cypher of George V and pierced foliate design. The plating is in excellent condition with very minor flecking. The cross-hatched steel back strap has an oval pommel and rounded tang nut. The fish skin grip is in excellent condition as is the twisted wire binding.
The brown leather covered field scabbard is in good condition and remains strong with all the stitching intact. The scabbard has minor use related scuffs and marks and the leather frog strap is missing. The sword sheaths and draws well and is held firmly in the scabbard.
This is a fine example of a WW1 Infantry Officer’s sword by a prestigious British maker.
