This Prosser 1821 pattern sabre was carried by a flank company officer in the prestigious, 79th Regiment of Foot, The Cameron Highlanders.
The 875mm pipe back blade is single-edged and terminates in a quill point. The slightly curved blade is double-edged for the last 250mm.
The blade is etched with the rayed crown and royal cypher of Queen Victoria above the number 79 and acanthus leaves. The obverse is similarly etched.
The forte is etched with a trefoil arch, foliage and ribbons above the maker’s details, Prosser. 9 Charing Cross, London.
The sword was made by the famous John Prosser Snr in 1837, shortly before his death. John Prosser Snr passed away only four months after gaining Queen Victoria’s warrant in 1837. Although John Prosser Jnr continued in business for a short time after his father’s passing, he traded using blades made by his father prior to his death. John Prosser Jnr did not produce any blades.
The blade retains a sharp fighting edge and is in very good condition with only a few small spots of tarnish.
The steel three-bar guard is in good condition with age-related wear and marks from use. The plain steel back strap, with slightly raised thumb section is finished with a stepped oval pommel and button through which the tang is peened.
The grip is strong and secure. The shagreen has use-related wear. The three strands of twisted copper wire are intact and tight. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The sword is complete with its polished steel scabbard with two suspension rings. The scabbard is in overall good condition with a ding at the bottom on one side. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly.
This is a good example of a prestigious Cameron Highlanders (79th Regiment of Foot) officer’s sabre, made by John Prosser.
