ERII British Royal Air Force Officer's Wilkinson Sword for sale, sold

A scarce ERII British Royal Air Force officer's sword by Wilkinson, serial number 71489 for 1953.

These 1920 Pattern British Royal Air Force officer swords as very scarce indeed, as not many RAF officers bought them (a bit difficult wielding it in a cockpit while strapped into a G-Suit perhaps). This one is aged, being over 50 years old let us not forget, but the blade is very good and if a serving officer wanted a Wilkinson, this one could be fairly easily and inexpensively refurbished, as it really only needs re-gilting to bring it up to a high standard.

The 32 1/4 inch blade is very good for its age, a little aging but not much; some time with a good metal polish on the plain sections might be an idea; the etching mostly good and clear, some slight fading perhaps here and there. The blade is firm in the hilt. The hilt has much gilt remaining and may well clean up to a very high standard with some careful cleaning. The fishskin grip is good to very good; one side better than the other (again, careful cleaning may be of benefit); the twisted grip wire bindings still good and firm. The leather and gilt on steel fittings scabbard is in good order, but has some leather marks (easily improved). The fittings on the scabbard have lost most of their gilt and would need re-gilting if the sword were purchased for serving officer use. The acorn of the sword knot has gone, the remaining ribbon is a little grubby; replacements available.

Truly, these are such difficult swords to source. Further / full sized images available upon request. Please quote item reference number D80 (769)