Victorian Scottish Basket Hilt Infantry Officer's Broadsword, sold

In good condition, a mid to late Victorian Scottish infantry officer's basket hilted broadsword.

Bladed etched at the ricasso / forte to "Ferguson Bros Union Street Inverness" who were active as silversmiths from 1860 to 1870; this ties in with the rounded (rather than flattened) bars of the basket hilt which were the norm during the mid-Victorian era.

The 31 7/8 inch blade is in good condition, though with patina (inert black rust) spots along much of the blade, particularly towards the point, and three nicks (these are definite sword to sword nicks but we can not say if they are period or not). The etching is still strong and clear, the blade firm in the hilt. The steel hilt with light periodic rust spots which could be fairly easily removed if desired, is in good order. The crimson hilt fabric insert is worn, aged and a little grubby in places (could be cleaned with care). The fishskin grip and associated twisted grip wire bindings are very good, some aging to the top where the grip meets the pommel. The leather field service scabbard is in very good condition; we believe it is probably a replacement, but a very well made one. The sword sheathes and draws very well.

A well above average example for only £xxx. Please quote item reference I74 (1088). Further / full sized images available upon request.