1796P British Light Cavalry Trooper's Sabre / Sword, Thos Craven, Sold

In good overall condition, a Thomas Craven of Birmingham made 1796 pattern British light cavalry trooper's sabre and scabbard.

Marked on the spine "Thos Craven", the sword was probably made from 1799 to 1802 as after that date Craven was in partnership until 1818, and although he reverted to his name only again in 1818, given the glut of weapons during peacetime after the defeat of Napoleon in 1815, it is highly unlikely to have been made then (not least its aged condition and the fact it has period battle nicks to the cutting edge) The British crown over 11 acceptance mark shows the sword was bought by the British government (Board of Ordnance) and was therefore bought for a regular cavalry regiment, not a reservist (yeomanry) regiment. With the nicks to the cutting edge, it is therefore a fairly safe bet that this sabre saw action in at least one of the two British Napoleonic Wars (the Peninsular War and 100 Days War; the later culminating in the Battle of Waterloo).

A guaranteed 100% authentic Napoleonic Wars 1796 pattern British light cavalry trooper's sabre, NOT one of the many aged replicas that have recently flooded the market.

The 32 1/4 inch blade is in very good condition except for aforesaid nicks. The blade is firm in the hilt. The hilt has patina throughout. The grip has lost most of its leather cover through wear and age, but the wooden base which now shows still looks the part. The scabbard has an equal extent of patina and has lost one of its suspension rings. The sword sheathes and draws quite well.

A lovely example for only £xxx (too late, now sold - original sales price divulged for small fee). Please quote item reference number O57 (1369). Further / full sized images upon request.