Circa 1800 (Trafalgar era) British Royal Navy Master's Sword (sold)

A 1796 - 1805, I believe 1800 British Royal Navy senior warrant officer's sword.

This is a stirrup-hilted RN warrant officer's (Ship's Master, or Armory / Gunner Master at Arms) sword, similar to and a predecessor of (though not to be confused with) the 1805 pattern. Stirrup hilted naval swords existed in the Royal Navy before 1805. This is one we can tell by a) the fouled anchor (without crown) langet, the plain pommel, simpler twisted grip wire bindings, and very simple stirrup shape. We can tell this was a ship's master's or mater-at-arm's sword because of the black fishskin grip and once fine decoration to the blade. This sword was being carried by a senior non-commissioned Royal Naval officer at the time of the Battle of Trafalgar.

The 28 1/2 inch blade is, I believe, the original length and commensurate with the need for a shorter than regulation length for close quarters fighting in cramped conditions; the point area is still sharp (period sharpened). The remnants of once fine etching are still very clear; the etching a testament to the seniority of the original warrant officer. The black fishskin grip has faded; of course, it could be restained very easily and simply. The twisted grip wire bindings are a little loose here and there but still good. Further / full sized pictures available upon request. My item reference number is 688 (269).