French WW1 1896 model Cavalry Officer's Sword, sold

In very good condition, a scarce 1896 model French cavalry officer's sword from early World War One, dated November 1914.

A very good example with minimal grip damage (repaired) of a WW1 French cavalry officer's sword from very early on in the Great War; you can only imagine what horrors the original owner experienced.

The 35 inch blade is in superb condition for its age, marked along the spine showing the model number, manufacturer (Châtellerault) and date 9bre (November) 1914, and is firm in the hilt. The gilt hilt is also in excellent order. The ebonized wood grip has some damage under the pommel which has been repaired, but overall is very good with the twisted grip wire bindings also very good. The steel scabbard has some staining here and there but again is good to very good. The sword sheathes and draws very well.

The sword is in such condition I suspect the original officer held it, put it in barracks, and then manned a machine gun rather than mounted a horse. In any event, it is well above average and a snip. Please quote item reference H11 (1004). Further / full sized images available upon request.