This British River Police hanger dates to the first half of the 19th Century and is rare.
The Thames River police are the World’s oldest police force, founded in 1798, thirty-one years before the establishment of the Metropolitan Police. The River Police were set up to police the River Thames and other main waterways of the UK.
The Thames River Police hanger differs from those issued to land forces in that it has an all brass grip and guard.
The 682mm slightly curved blade has a broad, single fuller on both sides, running almost the full length of the blade. The flat spine terminates in a 150mm double-edged spear point. The blade was armoury sharpened and retains a fighting edge.
The blade is in great condition and retains its original polished finish with only a few small patches of age related tarnish. The ricasso bears a crowned inspection stamp and retains its original washer.
The cast brass hilt is in excellent condition. The knuckle guard is stamped with the rack number 2 and the button operated locking catch is in excellent working order.
The sword is complete with its leather covered wooden scabbard with brass locket and chape. The scabbard is in excellent condition and the stitching is intact and tight. The brass locket and chape are in excellent condition and the sword sheathes smoothly and locks tightly into the scabbard.
This is an excellent example of a rare River Police constables’ hanger.
