In very good condition, a 11th Hussars Charge of the Light Brigade Trooper’s Sword / Sabre.
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Marked to the 11th Hussars on the guard / hilt; the 11th Hussars were one of only two British cavalry regiments known to only (or at least vast majoritively) carry the (then) new 1853 Pattern (most regiments still carried the 1821 Pattern), which were mostly, if not entirely, marked to Liege (Crown over L over 8 view / inspection mark) at that time; the British bought these Solingen (Prussian) made through their agent in Liege to keep them out of the hands of the Russians. Popular belief is that 1853P’s were made in Birmingham England, which they were, but the earliest ones tended to be those source through the British agent in Liege (Belgium).
OK, but how do we know this 11th Hussars 1853P was carried during the ill fated Charge of the Light Brigade? Simple, the 11th Hussars were alone in breaking convention by giving the swords of fallen trooper’s to the fallen cavalrymen / their families, as they did with trooper John Ashley Kilvert. If this sword had remained in service with the 11th Hussars / British Army, it would have many, many markings to it (as it was retested / reviewed and passed down ultimately to a reservist yeomanry cavalry regiment). This sword, 100% authentic, is in very good condition, except for some period nicks (patina into the nick, minimal burr) to the cutting edge and only its original markings. The ONLY way this sword would be in this condition would be that it was awarded to a fallen 11th Hussars trooper from the Charge of the Light Brigade.
The hilt / guard marked “72” over “11 H” for sword 72 of the 11th Hussars; standard / typical regimental markings for the period. “322” is, we understand, the 11th Hussars decommissioning number for the sword (being army property issued, it had to be accounted for).
The 35 3/8 inch blade is in very good original order (save for the nicks) and firm in the hilt. The hilt / guard very good, some rust or other residue (this is one sword we would do nothing but leave it untouched). The original chequered composite solid tang grip is worn or rather aged (these first man made grips do not last a long time). The scabbard with dings and wear, the inner wooden slats still there but will slide out if held mouth down. The sword sheathes and draws well for its age.
Listen, don’t blink or it will be gone. There are so many spuriously marked and / or falsely claimed Charge of the Light Brigade swords out there, but very very rare actual / provable ones; this 100% is one of the later and you better be quick if you want it. An incredible investment; was £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference AG76. Further / full sized images available on request. Box 1517-117x15x14 (2.381).
