Edwardian Wilkinson Patent Solid Hilt Cavalry Officer's Sword, sold

In good condition, the Edwardian / WW1 Wilkinson Patent Solid Hilt Sword of Charles Steele, 13th Hussars.

It is quite likely that this sword was carried and used during WW1 after service in France, in Iraq / Mesopotamia, against the Turks during 1917, including the capture of Baghdad when then Captain Charles Steele temporarily commanded part of the 13th Hussars during the capture of Baghdad. Serial number 40061 confirmed on the Wilkinson sales ledger as having been sold to him on the 16th March 1904, the blade, period sharpened, bearing his initials "C S".

The 34 7/8 inch blade is in good condition, some wear, some very light rust, very firm in grip / hilt. The hilt / guard in good shape. The composite grip sound to good, no twisted grip wire (no evidence there ever was). The field service steel scabbard has lost most of its browning but is good. The sword sheathes and draws well.

Officers were not required to change swords when patterns changed or there was a change of monarch. Plus, based on photos in official records for this regiment, most officers (including Lt. Col. J. J. Richardson. D.S.O., commander of the 13th Hussars) kept their earlier pre-1912P swords. So it is almost certain Steele kept and had his, this sword. In any event, it is a fine Patent Solid Hilt with absolute provenance to a very important officer of the 13th Hussars. So £? (too late, now sold) is an absolute bargain in any event. Please quote item reference number W77 (1201). Further / full sized pictures available upon request.