1803 Patt British General / Staff Infantry Officer's Sword / Sabre, sold

In good condition, a rare Napoleonic Wars, 1803 pattern general, senior or staff infantry officer's sword, JJ Runkel.

This is a very rare version of the 1803P, with a diced ivory grip denoting use by a senior, probably general staff officer in the British infantry during the Napoleonic Wars. Made by JJ Runkel, bearing the British Royal Coat of Arms for 1801 to 1816, the diced grip is in exceptionally good order. These swords are rare because most general staff officers continued to wear the so-called "boat shell" (1796P) sword as it was considered more elegant. Clearly, this sword's original owner wanted something a little more aggressive.

The 32 inch curved blade is in overall good order, some former rust pitting patches, the one glorious gilt and blue etching now down to the outline, but sill evocative / clear enough. The blade is firm in the hilt. The grip is lovely, the twisted grip wire bindings a little loose, not much. The hilt with some gilt remaining. Further / full-sized pictures available upon request. Please quote item reference number C66 (653).