English Raj Cavalry Staff Sergeants’ Sabre by Wilkinson.
Beautiful 1821 pattern cavalry staff sergeants’ sword made by Wilkinson of London circa 1850. This sword was carried by a senior Staff Sergeant in a cavalry regiment serving in India during the days of the Victorian Raj.
The slightly curved Wilkinson blade is 825mm long and 28mm wide at the ricasso with a flat spine tapering to a spear point. The blade is in very good condition with only minor age related tarnish in small patches. The finely etched blade bears the VRI cipher for Victoria Regina Empress of India surrounded by floral and scroll work. The Flowers of the Union are also etched on the blade – the rose, thistle and shamrock for England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
The ricasso is marked with the Wilkinson maker’s logo and the sword owners initials “WM.” The obverse ricasso is marked with the initials “ISD” for “India Store Department” and the War Department arrow. Below that is the letter “I” below an arrow which also denotes Indian issue.
Given the high quality of this sword and its etching, it is possible that the sword was initially the property of an officer and was later donated or bequeathed to the regiment or to a particular Sergeant.
The steel three-bar guard is in good condition with use related marks and patination. The ray skin and twisted wire are in good condition and the blade is firm in the hilt.
The wooden, leather covered scabbard is in great condition. The steel throat and chape retain some of their original nickel-plating with the copper strike (under plating upon which the nickel is plated) showing through.
The sword is held firmly in the scabbard and draws well.
