1803P Blue & Gilt British EIC Infantry Officer's Sabre / Sword, sold

In overall good condition with lots of blue and gilt etching remaining, a rare 1803 pattern British infantry officer's sabre / sword with lion langets denoting for an officer serving in the British East India Company.

This is a rare variation of a scarce sword, the first we have seen. What is more, the value is enhanced by the abundant remaining blue and gilt etching to the blade.

The 30 1/2 inch blade with post 1801 British Royal Coat of Arms and GR (King George IV) royal cypher, plus military symbols, etc. is in very good shape and firm in the hilt. The hilt with much gilt remaining and in good condition except for a bend and small break in the quillon (it is quite sound). The fishskin grip is lovely, a bit more substantial than many if not most 1803P's; it is a grip to be held firm in order to use the sword with deadly effect. OK, the grip has lost most of its once patent black surface, but the fishskin is very good, as are the twisted grip wire bindings. The lion's head langets make this one of the most attractive 1803P's that you are ever likely to encounter.

The ricasso / forte is etched to sword cutlers "Gibson's Thomson & Craig's Warranted", which dates the sword between 1801 to 1803.

A well above average example. Please quote item reference F93 (917). Further / full sized images available upon request.