In VGC, a WW1/WW2 RN Officer’s Sword possibly suitable for a serving officer
Click Here to enquire / inquire about / buy this item
Crucially British made early too mid 20C, so the quality is very good, plus no monarch’s cypher, so potentially suitable for a serving Royal Naval Officer. Almost certainly George V as it was typically during his reign that RN swords only bore the British Royal Coat of Arms, not the Royal Cypher. Most likely the later stages of WW1 (1917/1918) as quality real fishskin (not WW2 faux fishskin), no officer’s name engraved to the folding guard section plus no maker’s / retailer’s details etched to the blade (war time production needs outweighed such niceties); yes, this sword is likely to be an antique, over 100 years old! When it comes to the old adage “They don’t make them (as good) like they used to”, that certainly applies to swords.
The 31 1/4 inch very well etched blade is in very good condition and firm in the hilt. The gilt brass hilt / guard is in very good condition for its age; the folding guard section works well. The white fishskin grip is very good, a small seeming ink mark aside (likely could be removed), as are the associated twisted grip wire bindings. Sword knot complete and sound but age faded and a little worn. The gilt brass and black leather scabbard is very good for an antique, but some of the gilt has aged away and there a few small scuffs to the leather. The sword sheathes and draws well.
Very very nice example. Great price; £525, especially given it would have cost the priginal officer or his family twice that in today’s money. Please quote item reference ZX91. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box 2080 100 x 16 x 15 (1.49).
