A rare and much sought after Victorian 1857 pattern Royal Engineers sword by Robert Mole of Birmingham. The sword has been fully refurbished to parade condition. The P1857 was carried exclusively by officers of the Royal Engineers but was in use for only a short period before the Engineers reverted to the standard infantry P1897.
The 820mm, single edged blade has a wide fuller on both sides below a flat spine. The blade terminates in a spear point. The blade has been service sharpened and has a 230mm upper edge. The blade is beautifully etched with foliate scrollwork encompassing Queen Victoria’s crowned Royal cypher above a field gun and crossed laurel and palm fronds. The ricasso bears Robert Mole’s brass proof disc with starbursts.
The obverse of the blade bears a flaming grenade device above foliate scroll-work encompassing the winged thunderbolt and the words “Engineer Volunteers.” The blade has been re-plated and is in excellent condition.
The brass, acanthus leaf guard has been re-gilded and is in excellent condition. The gilt brass back strap has the crosshatched thumb rest and pommel characteristic of the Engineers pattern sword. The shagreen grip and gilt brass wire are in excellent condition. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The sword is complete with its new, 1900 pattern brown leather field service scabbard. The scabbard is in “as new” condition. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a beautifully and professionally refurbished example of a hard to find Victorian P1857 Royal Engineers sword. Refurbishment of this quality costs in excess of £1000.
