The Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) was incorporated by King Henry VIII in 1537 and is the oldest regiment in the British Army. This 1870 pattern HAC officers’ sword was made by Edward Thurkle, between 1870 and 1882.
The 825mm “Wilkinson” pattern blade has a three-quarter-length fuller below a flat spine. The first third of the blade has a raised medial ridge running to the spear point. The blade is in reasonable condition with small spots of tarnish and some small patches of pitting. There is a very slight kink in the blade, shown in the last photo.
The blade is etched with foliate scrollwork within trefoil arches and the crest of the Honourable Artillery Company, an armoured arm between wings that bear the cross of St. George. The arm holding a mace, above a knights’ helmet. Below the crest are the initials, HAC.
The obverse of the blade is etched with arches and foliate scrollwork above and below the Royal Cypher of Queen Victoria. The blade etchings are bright and clear.
The brass guard is in reasonable condition with small spots of tarnish. The rear facing quillon is stamped with an English rose. The rose is repeated in the centre of the knuckle bow. The front of the guard bears the regimental flaming grenade. The shagreen grip is in good condition and the twisted wire is intact and tight. The blade is firm in the hilt.
This is a reasonable to good example of a scarce Honourable Artillery Company officer’s sword.
