In good condition, the British 48th Regiment of Foot Crimean War Commanding Officer’s Sword of Lt Col Riky
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Period engraved to the scabbard, “Lt Col Riky 48th Regt”. Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Riky commanded the 48th (Northamptonshire) Regiment of Foot during the famous bloody Siege of Sevastopol, in which his regiment payed a very active part. The sword we offer here is the sword he wore there and then. Etched to Wilkinson of 30 Cockspur Street in London; this is not the Wilkinson Sword fame company, but a rival with the same and whose swords are very rare in themselves. Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Riky’s gallantry saw him receive the French Ordre national de la Légion d’honneur medal, a rare honour for a British officer.
The 32 3/16 inch period sharpened blade has a steady speckled patina throughout, etching still clear, in good condition, firm in the hilt; a single period nick to the forward cutting edge says this sword was used in combat against the Russians at Sevastopol. Hilt with some dents / grazes / distortion commensurate with an active service life. The fishskin grip and associated twisted grip wire bindings are good. The brass scabbard (brass for a senior officer) with many dings, no doubt from the campaign, is none the less good. The sword sheathes and draws well.
Commanding officer’s sword? Sevastopol / Crimean War? They don’t get much better. A certain investment at was £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference AG17. Further / full sized images upon request. Box 1342-102x19x16 (2.145).
