Victorian Coldstream Guards / Rifles Officer's Wilkinson Sword, Sold

In very good condition, an exceptional Victorian Coldstream Guards / Rifles Officer's Wilkinson Sword, etched to owner officer George John Fitzroy Smythe. Serial number 9489 for 1858/1859.

This is a bit of a mysetery sword due to the rifle regiment blade mounted into a Coldstream Guards hilt. Clearly, the blade was made for George John Fitzroy Smythe as it bears his initials. But the original Wilkinson sales ledger entry, besides confirming it was originally made / ordered as a rifle regiment sword (with the name of the rifle regiment penned out), but that the original buyer was "Angelo" (Angelo was a famous military family), raising the question as to whether the Angelo's actually paid for the sword as a gift.

George John Fitzroy Smythe, enlisted in the Coldstream 20/4/1860, Lieutenant 23/3/66, Captain 25/3/1871, Major 1/7/1881 and retired 10/12/1881. Perhaps he originally was commissioned to the rifle regiment but then was awarded a commission at the prestigious Coldstream Guards; more research clearly an idea.

The 32 1/2 inch blade is in near new if not new condition and is firm in the hilt. The hilt is in very good condition, easily good enough for parade use. The grip with some age / wear but very good, as are the twisted grip wire bindings. The steel scabbard with some age but good. The sword sheathes and draws very well.

Truly, a beautiful sword with high expectations for more research. An investment and probably a bargain, yours for £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference Q12 (0340). Further / full sized images available upon request.

Details of his family home Heath Hall here. More on Heath Hall here.