Waterloo Battle Damaged French Heavy Cavalry Sword, sold

In otherwise good condition, a Waterloo Battle Damaged French Heavy Cavalry Sword.

The heavy brass hilt has been clobbered and suffered a break of one bar joint and where the backpiece joins the pommel, plus the super strong blade has bending to it. This level of damage is commensurate with a burly French Cuirassier falling off his horse at La Haie Sainte ridge, pushed over by the British heavy cavalry charge. This sword has no post-1815 markings. It has a spear point. We bought the sword in Scotland. 99% Certainty the sword is a Waterloo battle trophy, perhaps bought back by a Highland infantryman or Scots Greys trooper. 99% Certainty the damage is of the day (the breaks are genuinely very aged). Klingenthal blade dated January 1815 with correct poinçons (inspection stamps) for that date.

The 37 3/4 inch blade is in good condition, save the bending, firm in the hilt. The hilt is overall good, but tarnished, and with period breaks / damage. Original leather grip in good condition, the grip wire gone (most of these grips have lost their wire). The steel scabbard is pitted but very heavy and sound. The sword sheathes and draws very well.

If you want a pristine example of this very impressive sword, this is not it. If you want one with clear period damage, virtually guaranteed to be from a fall at Waterloo, you will likely not find another like this. One of the most evocative swords you are ever likely to hold, just £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference number U93 (0923). Further / full sized pictures available upon request.