This Victorian Rifle officer’s sword was made by the Wilkinson Sword Company, London and retailed by Nodder of Liverpool.
The 820mm single-edged blade is of the 1845 “Wilkinson” pattern. The blade is slightly curved with a flat spine above a broad single fuller and tapers to a 295mm double-edged spear point. The blade was professionally service sharpened and retains a fighting edge.
The blade is etched on both sides with foliate scrollwork panels and the strung horn of the Rifles. The etching is worn and there are small patches of shallow pitting and speckles of tarnish. The blade is in overall fair to good condition.
The ricasso is faintly etched with the cutler’s details, Nodder, Liverpool. The obverse ricasso bears a brass proof stud showing a fleur de lys.
The Gothic steel guard is in good condition and incorporates an oval cartouche containing the crowned, strung horn badge of the Rifle Regiment. The guard is bright and rust free with a pale speckled patina. The shagreen grip is in excellent condition and the three strands of copper wire intact and tight. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The steel scabbard has a German silver throat stamped with the maker’s details, Wilkinson, Pall Mall. The scabbard is in overall good condition with a pale patina and patches of tarnish and shallow pitting. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a fair example of a Victorian Rifle officer’s sword at a bargain price!
