Constabulary short swords were standard issue in the 19th Century for members of the British police and prison wardens.
The lack of a locking catch dates this hanger to pre-1850. Around 1850, the locking catch was added after a number of incidents in which police officers and prison wardens had their swords snatched out of the scabbards and turned against them.
The 572mm broad, curved blade has a flat spine above a long single fuller on both sides. The fuller continues almost to the spear point. The blade double-edged for the last 195mm. The blade is in very good condition with minimal use related marks and retains its original leather washer.
The brass guard has a “D” shaped knuckle bow with disk quillon and stepped oval pommel through which the tang is peened.
The contoured wooden grip is wrapped with shagreen. The grip is in good condition with minor age and use related wear. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The sword is complete with its original leather scabbard with brass furniture. The brass locket is original to the scabbard but the chape looks to be a later replacement although it is an excellent match. The leather of the scabbard is in good condition and has what looks to be a period repair towards the middle, a thin band of additional leather having been added. This was probably done to reinforce a weak point as these scabbards were prone to bending eventually resulting in tears to the leather. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a very good example of an early Victorian British constabulary short sword.
