In good condition, a Victorian / Edwardian British RN Officer’s Sword & Scabbard
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The British MOD (Ministry of Defence) sold this to us (through their accredited agent) stating it was made by Wilkinson Sword. It is not etched to Wilkinson on the blade, we know. But the MOD are not dishonest, we believe. There are the remains of a typical Wilkinson serial number to the spine of the blade, but the MOD agent removed it, they say as instructed by the MOD (we think it was an unordered overreaction). The circular brass proof slug is missing; the MOD agent says that happened during the service life of the sword. The blade and sword generally are very much Wilkinson standard.
The hilt / guard has the Victorian crown, the blade the later (Edward 7th / George 5th) Edwardian crown; this actually happens quite a lot upon the death of one monarch and coronation of the next; the sword therefor likely dates to 1900 as we believe the blade and hilt are most probably original to each other. The other likely possibility is the sword was purchased for the Royal Navy during Queen Victoria’s reign (it is a VR Victorian sword) from Wilkinson, therefore being recorded as a Wilkinson by the MOD, but was given a replacement Edwardian blade later (pre-1935). In any event, the blade we feel sure is a Wilkinson.
The sword is in very good condition generally and we believe it is a very well maintained and refurbished example from around 1900. Sure, the grip may well have been replaced, like the knot and scabbard leather. The brass compononents have been professionally regilt. When? Not possible to estimate, though possibly if not probably more than once.
We have reported the facts as we know them; you can decide / speculate anything and everything else for yourself (we can add / reason no more).
The well etched 31 1/16 inch blade has traces of grey / gray background etching, is in very good condition and firm in the hilt. The gilt brass hilt / guard is in very good condition, the folding section works well. The white fishskin grip is in exceptionally good condition, as are the associated twisted grip wire bindings. Sword knot but with some fraying. The gilt brass and leather scabbard s good (some scuffing / wear to the leather). The sword sheathes and draws very well.
A truly high quality sword in very good condition, and with a lot of history. Yours for was £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference ZY46. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box 1868 100x11x11Â (1.41).
