This 1871 Mk II pattern regimental piper’s dirk was made by Robert Mole of Birmingham and issued to the 3 Battalion the Royal Highlanders (Black Watch) in February 1883.
The regiment was created as part of the Childers Reforms in 1881. The 42nd (Royal Highland) Regiment of Foot (The Black Watch) was amalgamated with the 73rd (Perthshire) Regiment of Foot. The amalgamated regiments were then known as The Royal Highlanders (Black Watch) from 1881.
The 300mm un-fullered blade terminates in a double-edged spear point. The blade is in excellent condition and is deeply etched with foliate scrollwork and thistles below ogee and trefoil arches. The forte is stamped with a Birmingham factory inspection mark.
The obverse of the blade is similarly etched. The forte bears the maker’s details, “RobT Mole & Sons, Makers. Birmingham.”
The hardwood grip is of baluster form and decorated with a basket weave pattern with white metal domed pins at the junctions. The steel pommel cap bears a raised crown.
The white metal bolster at the base of the hilt is engraved with a 4 and a second issue date of 6/97 (June 1897). The grip is in excellent condition and the blade is firm in the hilt.
The dirk is complete with its black leather covered wooden scabbard with steel mounts. The mounts are decorated with raised thistles. The locket of the scabbard is engraved with 3 RH 32 and the date 2/83, designating the 3rd Battalion Royal Highlanders (Black Watch), weapon number 32.
The scabbard is in excellent condition. The dirk sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is an excellent example of a Victorian regimental piper’s dirk, issued to the prestigious Black Watch.
