Victorian British Patent Solid Hilt Royal
Naval Officer's Sword, Sold |
A Victorian British Royal naval Officer's Sword with Patent Solid
Hilt in good condition.
 

The folding guard with no through hole in the folding guard (there
is a locking hole but it does not go through the folding guard section
all the way) suggests this sword dates to around 1880. It bears
the name of, we presume, a naval outfitters which is feint but appears
to be "Fromwell Queen Street Portsea". The blade etching
generally however is quite clear and good for this age of RN sword.


The 31 inch slightly curved blade is in good condition, some black
rust spots, etc but generally well above average. The blade is firm
in the hilt, the hilt astoundingly retaining quite good amounts
of gilt. The fishskin grip is a little grubby but still very, very
good for its age. The solid tang showing through the base of the
grip. The twisted grip wire bindings are good. The leather and gilt
(worn) fittings scabbard is good, a little unusual in that the middle
suspension loop appears to be the wrong / opposed way. We are not
sure if this is how the officer had his scabbard or if someone put
it back the wrong way around at a later date. It should be a fairly
easy matter to ease the bottom fitting off to reposition the middle
fitting if desired. The sword sheathes and draws well; the locking
pin just shy of the folding guard hole (probably due to a minute
amount of leather shrinkage.
This is a very old naval sword in well above average condition
and well worth the price. Please quote item reference number F70
(914). Full sized / further images available upon request


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