The cross hilt pattern of broadsword guard saw its first use among Highland infantry regiments in the 1860’s and was formally accepted in Dress Regulations in 1883. There are six varieties of the cross hilt guard, differing mainly in the style of the finials. The finials on this example are regulation pattern for the Argyll & Sutherland, Seaforth and Cameron Highlanders. This broadsword is believed to have been the property of an officer of the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders.
The 838mm double-edged (broadsword) blade has two narrow central fullers and terminates in a spear point. The blade has been professionally service sharpened and retains its fighting edges. The blade is in very good condition and is etched with the royal cypher of King George V amidst arches and thistles. There are some mild speckles of tarnish amongst the etching and one small patch of pale tarnish towards the point on one side.
The ricasso bears the retailer’s details, Marshall & Aitken, 25 George Street, Edinburgh. The obverse ricasso bears a brass proof disk showing a fleur de lys below the word Proved. The spine of the ricasso bears the serial number 7308. The blade retains its original washer.
The broadsword is complete with its plated steel dress scabbard with twin suspension rings and a ball terminal. The scabbard is in very good condition with only two small patches of tarnish to the plating. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is an excellent example of a scarce Highland infantry officer’s WW1 era broadsword. The serial number on the blade may enable the identification of the sword’s original owner.
