This Prosser 1821 pattern British Light Cavalry officer’s sabre was carried by an officer in the prestigious, 79th Regiment of Foot, The Cameron Highlanders. Officers of Highland regiments appear to have been afforded more lee-way in their choice of personal weaponry than would have been the case with English officers who would have been expected to carry the new 1822 pattern for infantry, the first of the Gothic hilted swords.
The 875mm pipe back blade is single-edged and terminates in a quill point. The slightly curved blade is double-edged for the last 250mm.
The blade is etched with the rayed crown and royal cypher of Queen Victoria above the number 79 and acanthus leaves. The obverse is similarly etched.
The forte is etched with a trefoil arch, foliage and ribbons above the maker’s details, Prosser. 9 Charing Cross, London.
The sword was made by John Prosser Snr, despite the fact that he passed away only four months after gaining Queen Victoria’s warrant in 1837. Although John Prosser Jnr continued in business after his father’s death, it seems that he was trading using blades made prior to his father’s death and that he, himself did not produce any blades.
The blade retains a sharp fighting edge and is in very good condition with only a few small spots of tarnish.
The steel three-bar cavalry guard is in good condition with age-related wear and marks from use. The plain steel back strap, with slightly raised thumb section is finished with a stepped oval pommel and button through which the tang is peened.
The grip is strong and secure. The shagreen has use-related wear. The three strands of twisted copper wire are intact and tight. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The sword is complete with its polished steel scabbard with two suspension rings. The scabbard is in overall good condition with a ding at the bottom on one side. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly.
This is a good example of a British 1821 pattern light cavalry officer’s sabre, made by John Prosser and marked to the prestigious Cameron Highlanders, the 79th Regiment of Foot.
£795.00
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