Circa 1780 British Junior Naval Officers Short Sword / Dirk, Sold

In good though aged condition, a rare circa 1780 British Junior Naval Officers Short Sword / Dirk.

The 5 ball knuckle bow and reeded hardwood grip dates this sword to 1780. The sword blade is too short to be an army officers, but the length is naval, the extremely curved blade is typical of a navy dirk, and black grip typical for a junior naval officer. This is a pre-regulation sword when officers were pretty much allowed to wear whatever they liked.

The 23 3/8 inch blade has a light splattering of light rust overall, plus a steady patina of course. Blade wriggles a tiny amount in the hilt. The hilt and grip generally good.

Nice sword, nice price; £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference S60 (0669). Further / full sized images available upon request. Box 0669-1m (1.433).