This is a near mint example of a rare British field officer’s 1892 pattern sword made by Edward Thurkle.
The British 1892 pattern infantry sword marked the end of an era for the brass Gothic hilted swords and is rare because most 1892 infantry swords were re-hilted in 1895 to conform to the new regulation pattern.
The 840mm thrusting blade is of dumbbell form, having a symmetrical cross section with a slightly rounded spine and belly and a short central fuller. The blade becomes wedge shaped for approximately two-thirds of its length and terminates in a narrow spear point. The 1892 blade is the ultimate thrusting design and its use continues today with the current, 1897 pattern hilt.
The blade is in as close to mint condition as it is possible to find and is beautifully etched with panels of foliate scrollwork and the royal coat of arms and domed crown of Queen Victoria above crossed laurel and palm fronds on a matt background. The obverse is similarly etched and includes the crowned cypher of Queen Victoria above crossed laurel and palm fronds. The ricasso bears the proof disk of Edward Thurkle. The obverse bears the maker’s details, “E. Thurkle, Maker. Soho, London.” The blade retains its original washer and is firm in the hilt.
The Gothic brass hilt is in excellent condition and retains its original gilding. The guard bears the VR cypher of Queen Victoria above the Flowers of the Union. The rear of the back strap has the typical acanthus style decoration with a stepped oval pommel and button. The grip is in very good condition with some minor spots of fading/wear to the shagreen and the wire binding is intact and tight.
The sword is complete with its gilt brass field officer rank scabbard. The scabbard is in near mint condition. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
These swords are becoming very hard to find and this is not only the best example of a rare 1892 pattern that I have owned, it is the best example that I have seen!
