This Victorian Volunteer Rifle’s sword was retailed in London by Firmin & Sons around 1860.
The 826mm single-edged blade is of the 1845 “Wilkinson” pattern. Earlier 1845 pattern blades were slightly curved, becoming straighter as the 19th Century entered its final quarter. The blade has a flat spine above a broad single fuller and tapers to a double-edged spear point. The blade is in very good condition with minimal age and use related marks.
The blade is deeply etched with the Rifle Brigade’s strung horn with ribbons containing the words, Volunteer Rifles. The obverse of the blade has Queen Victoria’s crowned royal cipher amidst foliate scrollwork panels. The ricasso is etched with the retailer’s details, Firmin & Sons, 153 Strand & 13 Conduit St., London.
The Gothic steel guard is in good condition with wear and small areas of pin-prick pitting. The guard incorporates an oval cartouche containing the crowned, strung horn badge of the Rifle Regiment. The smooth back strap ends in a stepped oval pommel and tang button. The shagreen grip is in good condition and the three strands of wire are intact and tight. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The sword is complete with its steel scabbard with two suspension rings. The scabbard is in good condition with a speckled patina and shallow, pin-prick pitting, mainly on one side and around the drag and shoe. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a good example of a Victorian Volunteer Rifle officer’s sword.
£395.00
I am 18+ I have read and agree to the terms and conditions of sale and shipping
Select your shipping region:
We are unable to ship to P.O. Box addresses. Please provide an alternative delivery address at checkout.
