This early Victorian sword was made soon after the adoption of the “Wilkinson” pattern blade in 1845 and before Britain’s entry into the Crimean War in 1854.
The 825mm single-edged blade has a flat spine above a broad single fuller on both sides and is the “Wilkinson” 1845 pattern. The blade retains its factory edge and has a 250mm upper edge and terminates in a spear point.
The blade is in good condition with only a few small patches of tarnish and is etched on both sides with arches, foliate scrollwork and the crowned cypher of Queen Victoria. The ricasso bears a blank, arched panel that would usually be etched with either a maker or retailers’ details. The obverse ricasso bears a brass proof stud.
The gilt brass guard is of the earlier 1822 pattern with a folding section and bears an oval cartouche containing Queen Victorias’ (1837-1901) Royal cypher. The guard is in very good condition, retaining its original gilt finish. The action of the folding section is crisp and tight. The shagreen grip is in good condition with three strands of copper wire. The hilt’s back strap has acanthus style decoration flowing into the stepped teardrop pommel with a tang button.
The sword is complete with its original leather scabbard with brass fittings and twin suspension rings. The leather scabbard helps date the sword to pre-1854, at which time, regulations required that a steel scabbard be used. The leather is in good condition, with slight crazing to the original finish and a crease above the chape. The stitching is intact and tight. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a very good example of an early Victorian infantry officer’s sword made between 1845 and 1854.
