This near mint condition British GVIR Royal Navy officer’s sword was made by the Wilkinson Sword Company and retailed by Gieves. The sword was the property of Rear Admiral Raymond Haydn Tribe, CB, MBE. Rear Admiral Tribe retired in September, 1965.
The 794mm single-edged blade has a narrow fuller below a flat spine that tapers to a double-edged spear point. The blade is etched with foliate scrollwork surrounding a rayed crown and the royal cypher of King George VI. The obverse of the blade bears the Royal Navy fouled anchor motif below a rayed crown.
The etching is crisp and clear. The blade is in mint condition and parade ready.
The ricasso bears the cutler’s details, Gieves Ltd. London, Portsmouth & Devonport. The obverse ricasso bears Henry Wilkinson’s “Best Quality” hexagonal proof mark.
The solid half-basket guard is in excellent condition. The bowl of the guard bears the Georgian crown and fouled anchor of the Royal Navy. The inner folding guard is in perfect working order and mates with the pin on the scabbard. The folding guard is engraved R. H. Tribe RN.
The mane of the highly detailed lion head pommel forms the back strap and the “D” guard extends from below the lion’s chin. The twisted copper wire wrap is present and correct. A Royal Navy sword knot is attached to the guard. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The sword is complete with its black leather scabbard with gilt mounts. The scabbard is in excellent condition with minor wear to the gilding. The sword sheaths and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This George VI Royal Navy Rear Admiral’s sword is in near parade ready condition and would be a great sword for a serving officer.
