1796P Queens Bays / 2nd Dragoon Guards Heavy Cavalry Sword, Sold

In good shortened condition, a 1796P Queens Bays / 2nd Dragoon Guards Peninsular War Heavy Cavalry Trooper's Sword by T Craven.

Marked "QDG K 14"; Queens Dragoon Guards (Queens Bays), Troop K, Weapon 14. This sword almost certainly was used in battle against the French in the Peninsular War. You stumble across these shortened swords from time to time; claims that they are swords converted to cutlasses for the Royal Navy seem to be pure fantasy. Most likely the blade was damaged in battle and retired as a practice weapon as no other markings exist to suggest it ever saw service outside the Queens Bays. However, coincidentally, T Craven of Birmingham was a sword maker known mostly for his cutlasses.

The 25 5/8 inch blade is in good condition, stamped "T Craven" to the spine and crown over 4 view (acceptance) stamp to the forte. Some nicks to the cutting edge. Blade firm in the hilt. The hilt overall very good (langets officially removed) as is the grip but with worm holes.

These 1796 patterns are so rare now and this one, albeit shortened, is in such good condition compared with others that our price of £? (too late, now sold) is a steal. Please quote item reference number V76 (1057). Further / full sized pictures available upon request.