In good overall condition, the George VI British Gurkha Rifles Officer’s Wilkinson Sword of Jonathan Beresford Oliphant.
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Serial number appears to be 70653 for 1952. The blade bearing initials “J B O” and the Oliphant family crest of a Falcon Volant Ppr with motto “Altiora peto” (I seek higher things). All weather carry case again with his initials with period attached “O H M S” label to Maj J B Oliphant, 1/7th Gurkha Rifles, Kluang, Malaya. Born 18th January 1931, Major 9th February 1964, retired 12th February 1971, died 20th September 2010. Jonathan Beresford Oliphant would have played a very active part in the Malayan Emergency Guerrilla War. We believe his nickname was Jumbo Oliphant. He had three children with his wife Jean Evelyn Louise Oliphant (nee: Murray), Catriona Jane Oliphant, Janet Elizabeth Oliphant, and Angus Laurence Oliphant.
The 32 1/4 inch blade has at some stage been professionally replated, most likely by Wilkinson, so the etching (and serial number) is feint in places. Blade firm in the hilt. The hilt has some damage (has a small kink, probably period) and some blue corrosion / tarnish. The fishskin grip is good but for one small patch. Grip wire good but with some tarnish. Black leather sword knot and field service scabbard both a little worn but good. The plated steel dress scabbard has some quite deep rust patches mostly to one side but is otherwise good. The all weather carry case is good (there is also a slightly worn, grubby and aged inner roeskin bag). The sword sheathes and draws well.
A very nice full provenance sword from an officer that helped defeat the Communists in Malaya (not Malaysia). Well worth was £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference U81. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box 0921-121x17x17 (2.878).
