In good condition, a Napoleonic Welsh / Welch Infantry Officer’s Sword & Scabbard
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This sword has some history. The blade is a shortened (to flank / rifle infantry length) French cavalry officer’s blade, so a battle capture, most likely from the Peninsular War where the Royal Welch Fusiliers fought in several battles against Napoleon’s Imperial Grand Army just prior to the 100 Days War (Waterloo). The hilt a typical British stirrup hilt but not regulation for an infantry officer. We know it was an infantry officer because of the blade length and the scabbard type (has frog suspension “button” not suspension rings). The hilt having the Prince of Wales feathers to the pommel, so we know with certainty the Welsh / Welch connection. It can only be a sword carried by a senior (ivory grip) Royal Welch Fusiliers officer, maybe / likely at Waterloo where the regiment again fought.
The item has been registered under ivory component item number LHPC3JM1 and so we may legally sell it.
The 28 3/4 cleaned sharpened blade is in good condition, typically French gilt etching just visible under the langets, firm in the hilt. The hilt / guard with some age but with most gilt remaining is good. The exceptionally well crafted chequered ivory grip has a tiny chip missing and some typical age cracking but is good. The bespoke (made for the blade) blackened steel scabbard has dents, dings, age, etc. and lost much of the surface black, but is sound. The sword sheathes and draws a little tightly.
A great historic sword. Yours for only was £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference ZZ02. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box 1636-91x15x14 (1.548).
