In very good condition, a Victorian Scots Guard Officer’s Wilkinson Sword, R.W. Oppenheim
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The former property of Lieut R.W. Oppenheim of the Scots Guards, and then, somehow, passed to comedian / actor / producer George Grossman Jr; provenance by descent (see additional photos).
Serial number 36948 for 5th October 1899, bought by R.W. Oppenheim (no rank), presumably while in Sandhurst Military College.
R.W. Oppenheim
2nd Lieutenant 8th May, 1901
Lieutenant 14th December, 1901
Half pay, ill health, 4th June, 1910
There appears a Capt R.W. Oppenheim in the 4th Dragoon Guards during WW1, but this may not be the same officer.
A connection between R.W. Oppenheim and George Grossman Jr exists in that the later appied to Sandhurst Military College twice in 1899 but was rejected both times. His family say this was because George Grossman Jr failed the French exam on both occaisions; hmmm! It is therefore possible that they were friends, Oppenheim died due to ill health and the sword was bequethed by him to Grossman, but that is pure speculation.
Further research potential!
The 32 1/2 inch blade with etched battle honours and badge for the Scots Guards is in very good condition and firm in the hilt. The steel hilt with Scots Guards badge to the guard’s cartouche is in good condition, some age. The fishskin grip and twisted grip wire bindings are generally good, some age. The steel scabbard is aged / worn but good. The sword sheathes and draws well.
Scarce Scots Guards officer’s Wilkinson Sword in good condition, yours for £800. Please quote item reference ZW87. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box 2183 102 x 13 x 13 (1.87).
