In very good condition, the Victorian Argyllshire Highlanders Officer’s Broadsword of Francis Prescod Gurney
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Made by Wilkinson Sword in 1871, serial number 17542, which the Wilkinson sales ledger confirms was sold to a F O Gurney (unsure as to whether the “O” is a typo or if the sword was bought by his father). You can read about the 91st (Argyllshire Highlanders) Regiment of Foot here. We found the grave of (then Captain) Francis Prescod Gurney here. He most likely saw action with this sword by his side in the Zulu War of 1879.
The 32 1/4 inch blade is supremely well etched with the badge and name of the Argyllshire Highlanders and Victorian Royal Cypher, and is in near new condition. There is a tiny amount of movement of the blade in the hilt but this is common as the pommel nut is a screw fitting so the basket hilt can be removed and replaced with a cross hilt (not supplied). The period chemically browned steel basket hilt is very good. The fishskin grip and twisted grip wire bindings also very good. Period chemically browned steel scabbard in good condition. The sword sheathes and draws well.
A stunning example in very good condition, well worth our was £? (too late, now sold) price tag. Please quote item reference AH04. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box 1627-118x15x14 (2.118).
