In good condition, a Victorian Royal Engineers Officer’s Wilkinson Sword (scabbard as seen).
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The chape end of the scabbard has broken off and is absent. Serial number 34913 was finished by Wilkinson Sword on April 11th 1899. No customer name given on the Wilkinson sales ledger but the officer’s name “S H Cowan” is etched to the blade. This is an 1897 pattern sword.
S. H. Cowan was a commander of the 175th Tunnelling Company, nicknamed “The Moles,” which was involved in tunnel warfare. He also held a position in the 177th Tunnelling Company, both during World War One. He achieved the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel with his appointment listed in The London Gazette on April 25, 1933.
The 32 inch supremely well etched blade is in very good condition and firm in the hilt. The steel (non-plated) guard / hilt has original chemical browning and some patina; aged but good (some staining).. The black fishskin grip has wear but remains good; the associated grip wire bindings are present / good. The leather field service scabbard is missing the chape end. The sword sheathes and draws well.
Full provenance on blade. Just was £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference ZW78. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box?
