WW2 Argyll & Sutherland Highland Infantry Officer's Broadsword, sold

In very good condition, an Argyll and Sutherland Highland Infantry Officer's Broadsword by Wilkinson Sword; originally made in 1882, re-etched by them circa 1937. Originally the sword of Sir Herbert Eustace Maxwell of Monreith 7th Bt, most recently the sword of his grandson Major Eustace Maxwell.

Etched to Wilkinson Sword, with the regimental badge of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, and an "Eagle, wings expanded, Sable, beaked and membered Or" with the Latin inscription "Reviresco" (I flourish again). Serial number 25003 is confirmed by the Wilkinson sales ledger as having been sold to Sir H. Maxwell in July 1882. The Wilkinson logo etc. dates to 1937, when the sword was re-etched by them to include the badge of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders.

The 32 3/8 inch blade is exceptionally well etched and in good condition, firm in the hilt. The distinctive mid Victorian era hilt (rounded bars, later hilts having flattened bars) with some smaller rust spots but generally really good. The fishskin grip and twisted grip wires are in very good condition; clearly, he did not hold it much. The crimson leather buff hilt insert is aged but good. The crimson tassle is coming apart. The plated steel scabbard has many small rust spots but is good. The sword sheathes and draws well.

A superb sword and further research a must! A great buy at £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference number AF48 (1117). Further / full sized pictures available upon request.

NB: The blade has been blanked and re-etched so professionally, as only Wilkinson could, that you really could not tell this is a re-etching. The crossed sword Wilkinson logo with "By Appointment (not to any stated monarch)" indicates the late 1930's. Eustace Maxwell was assigned to the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders as a Regular Army Intelligence Officer in charge of the Borders Resistance, set up in case Germany invaded the UK.

Puchased as a pair with this basket hilted broadsword.