George V RAF Sword, Air Commodore Graham Clarke Bladon, sold

In good condition, a late or slightly post WW1, George 5th British RAF officer's sword, marked to G C Bladon, who became Air Commodore Graham Clarke Bladon CB CBE.

Not surprisingly, this sword is etched with the maker's name "Gieves" who are were renowned British Royal Navy outfitters and sword cutlers in Portsmouth and elsewhere. Not surprisingly because Graham Clarke Bladon joined and trained with the Royal Naval Air Service before it was amalgamated with other British air services into the RAF (Royal Air Force) on the 1st April 1918. This sword most likely was his commissioning sword on the 12th December 1919, but may have been bought by him / his family earlier as he shows as being a pilot trainee in late 1917. Graham Clarke Bladon went on to become a very senior RAF officer and ultimately the Commander, Royal Ceylon Air Force from 1951 to 1958. It is believed this sword served with him until just after World War Two.

Related information: RAF Web / Ceylon - Sri Lanka Air Force

The 32 1/2 inch blade is in good condition, the etching still clear, some patina spots here and there, firm in the hilt. The hilt is good and retains some of its original gilt. The fishskin grip and associated twisted grip wire bindings are good, though the grip has aged and moved a little away from the backpiece (to leave a small gap) as is quite common with these swords for some reason. The sword know it aged and I suspect a later (perhaps just pre-WW2) replacement for the 1918/1919 original. The leather and gilt steel fittings scabbard is generally good, but aged and the gilt very worn. The top locket bearing the engraving "G C Bladon". The sword sheaths and draws very well.

These swords generally sell for £1000 without any provenance. Further / full sized pictures available upon request. Please quote item reference number D31 (705).