1897P Edwardian British Infantry Officer's Sword, sold

In good condition, a Wilkinson made King Edward 7th (with 1872 Victorian blade) British infantry officer's sword, initialed, family crest.

The earlier blade indicates this sword was held by either a very long serving officer, or that the blade was remounted for a son or heir to the original officer. Almost certainly the officer(s) were in the West Yorkshire Regiment (Prince of Wales's Own) (14th Foot), as we bought this sword from the York Army Museum.

Made by Wilkinson Sword, the blade has the serial number 18352 (April 1872), the initials "C A D" (we presume they are C A D) and a family coat of arms, so the original owner, and with that the later heir owner should be identifiable with some diligent research (regrettably, the Wilkinson sales ledger entry does not show the original buyer's name).

The 32 1/4 slightly curved blade is in good condition. It has been replated but very well done, so we suspect it was replated when the blade was later refitted in and Edward 7th 1897P hilt. The hilt is good as are the fishskin grip and associated twisted grip wire bindings. The sword knot we believe is original (to the later hilt) and is fairly good. The brass scabbard, which indicates the original owner held a superior staff officer rank, is original to the blade and the previous hilt; we can tell this by the slight lip of the throat of the scabbard. We suspect that the sword was most likely therefore carried by the same officer, that it is not an "heir" blade passed from one family to another, because the brass scabbard (for staff officers) would not be appropriate for a newly commissioned officer. The sword sheathes and draws well enough, but the original interior wooden slat liners for the scabbard have clearly aged / gone as it is a little loose.

Still, a great sword with the potential for a bargain with some diligent research. Please quote item reference F82 (934). Further / full sized images available upon request.