Napoleonic Wars British Infantry Officer's Sword Blade, Sold

In good condition, a Napoleonic Wars British Infantry Officer's Sword with Captured French Blue & Gilt Etched Blade.

This is an 1786 pattern British infantry officer's hilt / guard with a captured French officer's blade. Although the 1786P was seldom used on the battlefield after 1800, it remained in use in the British Army for many years, most notably as a dress sword. The British officer returning from the Peninsular or 100 Days (Waterloo) War with a captured French infantry officer's sword has it mounted into this hilt as the French blade is not dissimilar to the blades used by the British for this pattern sword. It is only logical if not possible reason to find a French blade mounted into a British hilt.

The 31 1/8 inch "diamond section" double edged period sharpened blade is in good condition save for a dented tip and some period roughness / light damage to both sides of the forward cutting edge, has very good amounts of blue and gilt etch remaining, plus is firm in the hilt. The hilt in good shape with some gilt remaining. The silver metal wire grip is good but with some wire distortion.

Just imagine the story behind this sword and the original British officer who once owned it. Not worth quibbling at just £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference number V88 (1091). Further / full sized pictures available upon request.