British P1827 Royal Navy officer’s sword made in 1955 by the Wilkinson Sword Company.
The 795mm single-edged blade has a slightly rounded spine tapering to a 260mm upper false edge. A long single fuller runs below the spine ending in a medial rib down to the spear point.
The blade is deeply etched with St. Edwards’ crown and the Royal Navy fouled anchor motif between fouled oak leaves and acorns. The obverse of the blade bears the royal cypher of Queen Elizabeth II amidst fouled oak boughs. The blade is clean and bright and in very good condition with some small, isolated spots of cleaned pitting. The blade is untarnished. The forte bears the Royal Warrant and the legend “By appointment to the late King George VI,” above the Wilkinson Sword Company logo and a banner showing the words “Made in England.” The obverse bears the Wilkinson Sword proof etching. The spine is stamped with the serial number, 75986, dating its production to 1955.
The gilt brass solid half-basket hilt is in excellent condition. The bowl of the guard bears the Tudor crown and fouled anchor of the Royal Navy. The inner folding guard is in perfect working order and mates nicely with the pin on the scabbard. 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 gilt wire wrap is present and in excellent condition.
The brass mounted black leather scabbard is original to the sword and is in excellent condition. There is a mild crease in the leather about 10mm above the chape. The sword sheaths and draws well and is held firmly within the scabbard and the locking pin engages.
This is a very nice Royal Navy officer’s sword from the early years of Queen Elizabeth II reign. The Wilkinson serial number should enable the identification of the original owner and research into their life and naval career.
