The 1827 pattern Rifle officer’s sword is usually found with an 1845 “Wilkinson” pattern blade. This scarce variant has a blade of the 1892 pattern. The sword was made by Septimus John Pillin, a member of the famous sword making Pillin family based in London, England. The sword was made between 1892 and 1899.
The 815mm single-edged blade has a broad and deep central fuller giving it a dumbbell cross-section for the first half of its length. From the mid-point, the blade has a triangular cross section and tapers to an 85mm double-edged spear point. The blade was service sharpened, probably for use during the Sudanese Campaign (1881-1899), or for the Anglo-Boer War (1899-1902).
The blades is etched with foliate scrollwork above a rayed crown and Royal arms of Queen Victoria. Below this is the strung horn of the Rifle Regiment. The obverse of the blade is similarly etched and includes the crowned cypher of Queen Victoria above crossed laurel and palm fronds. The spine bears the serial number 101793.
The ricasso bears a Pillin proof stud. The obverse ricasso bears the retailer’s details, Cater & Co., Pall Mall, London. SW. Cater & Co., were a military outfitter and were a contract customer of the Pillin family.
The blade is in good condition with some sharpening scratches above the edge on the first half of the blade. The blade retains its sharp fighting edge.
The Gothic steel guard incorporates an oval cartouche containing the crown and strung horn of the Rifle Regiment. The guard is bright and rust free and is in good. The shagreen grip is in good condition and the twisted wire is intact and tight. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The sword is complete with its steel scabbard with twin suspension rings. The scabbard is in good condition with speckles of mild tarnish. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a good example of a scarce 1892 bladed Victorian Rifle officer’s sword by a top English maker.
£450.00
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