In good condition, the 1800p Peninsular War sword of Major Bell (48th Foot Regt).
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The Napoleonic Peninsular War Sword of Major John Bell, Commander of the Northamptonshire 48th Regiment of Foot. Read about this very important officer here and here.
Facits: 1800s (non-regulated) pattern. Post 1802 British Royal Coat of Arms. Typical infantry etching to blade (no cavalrymen). Period (no / minimal burr, patina within) nicks to the blade. Period engraved “Major Bell” to the field service scabbard. Said to be the sword of later General Sir John Bell, GCB (Brevet Major 1812. Major 21 June 1813), who served with the 52nd (Oxfordshire) Regiment of Foot, King’s Own Royal Regiment (4th Regiment of Foot) and actually commanded the 48th (Northamptonshire) Regiment of Foot towards the end of the Peninsular War. The steel scabbard has clearly been through the wars (seen action multiple times).
Yes, we know the infantry version of this sword normally has “Pas d‘âne” rings to the inner guard, but the infantry version was a frail dress sword, partly bcause of those rings which also were an encumbrance in battle; this broadsword is clearly made for and saw battle, plus Major Bell would have been a mounted infantryman at a time when regulated swords for senior officers did not exist, and he was noted for being an excellent horseman.
Provenance: By Repute; the above / his period engraved name, John Bell is known to have been involved in close quarters combat which explain the sword blade nicks (he was injured at one time), the scabbard type and wear / damage, and the fact our extensive research shows him to be only Major Bell during that period.
The 32 inch broadsword (double edged) blade with central thin fuller has some of the once glorious etching remaining, a few period authentic nicks, and is firm in the hilt. The iconic gilt shell guard and quillons are good, so too the pommel. The original faux wire wrapped grip is good but for a small patch missing. The steel scabbard has multiple active service dings / dents, plus age and wear. The sword sheathes and draws well.
The early sword of General Sir John Bell, GCB from when he was a major. Yours for only £2500; a bargain, really! Please ask for item reference ZV70. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box 3004 102 x 13 x 14 (1.686).
