Napoleonic Wars British 1796P Cavalry Trooper's Sabre, Sold

In good condition, a Napoleonic Wars British 1796P Cavalry Trooper's Sabre made by Woolley & Deakin and with Regimental Markings.

With earlier crown over arrow read / acceptance mark to the blade, made by Woolley and Deakin (1798 to 1805 using that name alone) of Birmingham (so marked to the spine), the scabbard has regimental marks "D" over "61" (D Troop, Weapon 61), which means it was carried by a regular (front line) cavalry regiment trooper and, courtesy of the period nicks to the cutting edge, saw active (combat) service during the Peninsular and / or 100 Days (Waterloo) Wars. This sabre has been used against French forces. Given the earlier view / inspection mark, it is almost certain this sword was made in 1798 or just after, and remained in service throughout the Napoleonic Wars as there are no decommissing marks. Please note: it is very unusual and often suspicious to find regimental designations identifying the regiment on British swords of this era, as generally you only see Troop letters and Weapon numbers.

The 32 1/2 inch blade is in very good condition for its age but with several tell-tale period nicks; blade firm in hilt. The stirrup hilt / guard is in good condition, a steady patina. The grip is very good for its age, some leather missing but not much, some cracking of the wooden grip base but not too much, some worm holes but not too many. The scabbard has some inert light rust pitting (not much) plus a steady patina. The sabre sheathes and draws well for its age.

One of the best, most honest, most likely to have been at Waterloo sabres as you will find. Grab it quick; £? (too late, now sold) . Please quote item reference R62. Further / full sized images available upon request.