1796P British Heavy Cavalry Trooper's Sword by Gill, VGC, SOld.

In very good condition, a scarce to rare 1796P British Heavy Cavalry Trooper's Sword by Gill, in original (unmodified) condition.

It is very, very rare to find a 100% authentic 1796 pattern British heavy cavalry trooper's sword in such great condition, with the langets still there, with its original hatchet point blade, and with the disc guard complete (not cut down). Most of these swords had exceptionally long and harsh service lives, modified, used for practice after the pattern was replaced in 1821, then often cut down and used for cutlass training after that. This sword was made by Gill and was accepted by the Board of Ordnance for allocation to a heavy cavalry regiment, but has no clear regimental markings (there appears to be something on one side of the scabbard but we think it is just wear). Though the sword was clearly worn (the inner edge of the disc guard has the tell tale slight bending), the blade was period sharpened and is still quite sharp, and the tip end is very slightly bent as if it had once hit a target. Why this sword has lasted and in such good condition, we really have no idea. But it is a 100% authentic 1796P heavy cavalry sword by famous make Gill.

The 35 inch blade is in very good condition and firm in the hilt. The hilt with some period wear damage and a steady patina / very light pitting but is in exceptionally good condition and original. The original leather grip with some age and wear but one of the best we have seen. The steady patina scabbard with some small denting near the drag and also very good. The sword sheathes and draws very well.

It is totally unlikely you will be able to buy an original condition 1796P in such good order ever again. £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference AE76 (1010). Further / full sized images available upon request.