In very good condition, a Victorian VR 1895P British Infantry Officer’s Sword and Scabbard by Thurkle.
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Made by the renowned Thurkle sword company; this one with rare maker’s etching showing it was retailed through the Army & Navy Cooperate Stores Ltd in London, Bombay and Karachi. As the cypher is VR, not VRI on the guard / hilt, it is fair to assume the sword was sold to an officer based in Britain. This is a medium dress weight sword, not full width (7/8 inch width at forte / ricasso), not the slimmest blade. The scabbard also shows the sword was sold to an officer for dress / formal / parade use, as realistically, most swords were then one way or another. This is an 1895 pattern sword without the turned down inner hilt edge, so dates it from 1895 to 1897.
The 32 7/8 supremely well etched blade is in very good condition and firm in the hilt. The plated steel is very good except for some rust patched around the edges, primarily where the sword knot once was (a common occurrence as sword knots tend to attract and hold onto damp). The fishskin grip and associated grip wire bindings are in good condition. The plated steel scabbard is in good condition. The sword sheathes and draws very well.
A stunning example of an 1895P. Yours for £550. Please quote item reference X63. Full sized images available upon request. Box 1343-111x17x16 (1.940).
