Circa 1800 British West India Dock Company Customs Cutlass, Sold

In sound to good overall condition, a circa 1800 British West India Dock Company Customs Officer's Cutlass.

Marked "W I D C No 33" for cutlass number 33 of the West India Dock Company in the Isle of Dogs, London; they were the first purpose built docks in London. The area is now referred to as "Canary Wharf", one of London's main financial centres. It is unknown if this pattern of cutlass was exclusive to the West India Dock Company, but was probably also used by many other Customs officers throughout Britain.

The 24 7/8 inch blade is in very good condition and firm in the hilt and grip. The spiraled iron grip in good but worn condition. The brass hilt itself is bent as you would expect from this softer decorative metal, and there is a break on one of the bars, but it is still overall sound.

You really do not see many of these around. A great naval collector's must have for only £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference number V36 (0993). Further / full sized pictures available upon request.