In VGC, a probable Charge of the Light Brigade British 1821P Light Cavalry Trooper’s Sword
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I know, I know, every seller makes wild exaggerated claims about their swords but I can only imagine two scenarios for this one; a) it was stolen by a British cavalry trooper, or b) it was gifted to him unofficially (bearing in mind British trooper swords were Board of Ordnance / state owned, not regiment owned) by a cavalry officer for bravery (or simply coming out alive) after a major battle, and the only battle I can place for this sword would be the Charge of the Light Brigade (50% of swords were 1821P’s, 50% were 1853P’s).
Why is that? It 100% is British, not a Prussian copy. The markings to the guard and scabbard are 100% British; the very typical in every respect “H” for Hussars, but without the regimental number prefix (it has been removed). So too are gone (removed) the crown acceptance mark to the blade, but you can just make out the remains. So too is gone the maker’s name from the blade’s spine, but you can see very feint remains. This sword has been cleaned by a cavalry trooper turned thief, or it has been given to him by an officer when it was not the regiments to give. Had it seen end of service / state ownership normally, the markings would still be complete and a double opposed decommissioning broad arrow mark added.
Th sword is in such good condition, it would not have been officially decommissioned; it would have gone to a yeomanry regiment (who would have added their regimental designation) . The scabbard has a different rack number, so it is a later marriage, typical of an after the event situation. It was a regular British Hussar regiment sword as the “H”‘s are spaced to the right to allow for the regimental designation (number). There is some other font / style of marking to the guard in front of the “H” but it is not original or in an official font / style.
Stolen or awarded? You decide! But a thief is unlikely to go to such lengths; a cavalry officer giving away army (Board of Ordnance) owned equipment is.
The 35 inch plain single fuller slightly curved blade is in very good condition and firm in hilt. The hilt / guard with a steady light pitting is in very good condition otherwise. The grip has some leather surface loss through wear but it otherwise good. The steel scabbard has a few dents / dings but is quite good. The sword sheathes and draws fairly well.
What a great and interesting example in well above average condition. Yours for was £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference ZY20. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box 1838 109x14x14 (2.060).
