In GC, a WW1 Royal Navy Master at Arms Battleship Gunner’ s Presentation Sword
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The World War One Royal Naval Master at Arms Battleship Gunner’s Presentation Sword for Gunner Herbert Stanley Taylor HMS Benbow (from the officer’s of that battleship). High quality maker “Robt Mole & Sons, Birmingham”. Serial number M3732. HMS Benbow’s crew list shows that Master Gunner Taylor was also a Royal Marine bandsman, was born in Battersea London on the 24th August 1888 and joined the Royal Navy at the outset of WW1 on 14th October 1914, then aged 26. HMS Benbow was present at the Battle of Jutland.
The 30 3/4 inch blade has been replated and has suffered a common “milkiness” as a result, plus has some pitting towards the point, but otherwise is in fairly good condition, plus is firm in the hilt. The gilt brass hilt with rounded plain pommel for a Master at Arms is in good condition; the unengraved / plain folding guard section works well and locates onto the securing pin of the scabbard. The black fishskin grip for an NCO / junior officer is a little faded but good; the twisted grip wire bindings are very good. The black leather and gilt brass fittings scabbard is aged but good, some small wear related dents to the chape. The sword sheathes and draws well.
Master at Arms swords command a price premium as they are much scarcer than commissioned officers swords, but at £650, the premium is minor. Please ask for item reference AI43. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box 2004 99 x 16 x 15 (2.177).
