1881M Early Imperial Russian Dragoon Trooper's Shashka, Sold

In good condition, a rare early and guaranteed authentic 1881 model Russian shaska, regiment marked.

Be warned, most Russian model shashkas on the market are reproductions, Iranian versions, or outright forgeries; we 100% guarantee this is an authentic 1881M Russian Shashka.

This is an early 1881M (1883-1884); just look at the smooth rounded pommel and lack of pommel pins. There is the pre-1890 circular Zlatoust maker's mark and post 1880 "C" inspector's mark. The obverse of the blade has two slightly different Zlatoust cyrillic P (looks like the mathematical pie symbol) inspection stamps, indicating the shaska was re inspected during its service life.

The 33 1/2 inch blade is in very good condition for its age; the blade was actually covered in varnish when we got; varnish was used extensively by the Victorians to preserve steel / swords (there is some varnish still remaining on the blade). The blade is still sharp from clearly a period sharpening. Blade a little loose in the hilt (not much), the hilt overall in good though aged and worn. There is no scabbard.

A good example for only £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference number M13 (1225). Further / large images available upon request.