In VGC, the British Coldstream Guards Officer’s Wilkinson Sword of Brigadier L. M. Gibbs
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The piquet weight (dress) sword of Brigadier L. M. Biggs CVO, DSO, MC & bar, by HENRY WILKINSON PALL MALL LONDON, serial number No.42842 for 1910. His initials “L M B” etched to the blade. The Wilkinson sales ledger confirms it was his.
NB: Guards officers did not carry swords during WW1, they carried pistols.
Brigadier Lancelot Merivale Gibbs fought in the First World War. He gained the rank of Brigadier in the service of the Coldstream Guards. He also fought in the Second World War. He was decorated with the award of Military Cross (M.C.) and bar, and was decorated with the award of Companion, Distinguished Service Order (D.S.O.). He was also invested as a Commander, Royal Victorian Order (C.V.O.).
Born on 23 Dec 1889, the youngest son of Anthony Gibbs, MA, JP, DL Educated at Eton and entered the army after serving as a 2nd Lieutenant in the 3rd Bn (1st Somerset Miliitia) of the Somerset Light Infantry from 1908 to 1910.
Gazetted 2nd Lieut, Coldstream Guards on 7 Dec 1910. Promoted Lieut, 19 Jul 1913. Captain, 17 Jul 1915.
During the Great War he served in France with the Grenadier Gds and on the staff from Aug 14 to Feb 17 and from Nov 17 to Feb 1919
Once wounded. Four times mentioned in despatches.
On staff of the British Section of the Supreme War Council at Versailles from Feb – Jun 1919. Aide-de-Camp to the Commander-in-Chief in India, General Lord Rawlinson from Dec 1922-Mar 1925. Major, 12 Sep 23. Lt-Col, 15 Dec 30. OC, 1st Bn, Coldstream Gds from 15 Dec 30 to 14 Dec 34. Asst. Adjutant General, War Office from 1934 to 1938. CVO, 1937. Brigadier-in-Charge of Administration and Assistant Adjutant-General from 3 Dec 40 to 1945. Temp-Brigadier, 3 Jun 41
It is believed that this remained his sword throughout his army career
The 32 3/8 inch blade is well etched with Grenadier Guards badge / motto and their pre-WW1 battle honours, and is in very good, practically as new condition, and firm in the hilt. The plated steel hilt / guard with badge of the Coldstream Guards to the cartouche is in very good condition. The fishskin grip has a little wear but is still very good, as are the twisted grip wire bindings. Plated steel scabbard is very good for its age. The sword sheathes and draws well.
Beautiful sword, very important officer, full provenance, low price: was £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference AI24. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box 1942 107 x 15 x 16 (1.719).
