Pipe Back Napoleonic Wars British Infantry Flank Officer's Sword, sold

In good condition, a fearsome pipe-backed clipped point British infantry flank officer's fighting / campaign sword, possibly wootz blade.

This is a rare sword. A pipe back blade with clipped point. The blade with no signs that it was ever etched and therefore was probably made as a campaign / fighting sword and it shows; the blade is fearsome. With some crazing to the steel, the blade is most likely some form of wootz steel fabrication; possibly an imported blade as was known, though we suspect the blade is British made but of the highest grade steel. The blade is still sharp to this day.

The plain curved 29 inch blade is firm in the hilt. The hilt in overall good condition but with a strong patina. The fishskin grip and associated twisted wire bindings are both very good for their age. The steel scabbard has a few dings and plenty of patina, but solid. The sword sheathes and draws very well.

This is such an impressive sword; it was made for slicing the enemy and quite possibly did so. Very few of these around with the pipe-back blade, so a real evocative and sound investment. Further / full sized images available upon request. Please quote item reference F45 (916)