Victorian, British, 1897 Pattern, Indian Infantry Officer's Sword and Scabbard, by Ranken & Co, Calcutta

*Victorian, British, 1897 Pattern, Indian Infantry Officer's Sword and Scabbard, by Ranken & Co, Calcutta*

The 1897 pattern infantry officers’ sword is a straight-bladed, three-quarter basket-hilted sword that has been the regulation sword for officers of the line infantry of the British Army from 1897 to the present day. It is distinguished from the 1895 pattern by the turn-up on the inner edge coupled with the generally smaller holes in the decoration of the guard the hilt, though they are fundamentally very similar. The ricasso is etched Ranken & Co, Calcutta - the retailers, so it either belonged to an Indian Army officer, or a British Army officer serving in India.

This is a 32.5-inch single-edged blade with three-quarter fuller, burnished Arabesque decoration with crowned 'VR' monogram and bugle, with proof button, full-steel knuckle guard with pierced scrollwork and 'VR' monogram, wire-bound steel grip with engine-turned back-strap, dome pommel, steel scabbard with integral shoe-drag, suspension rings and nickel mouthpiece.

*Condition*
This sword and scabbard are in excellent condition, with some discolouration. The scroll work is clear and the blade is excellent. The scabbard fits securely. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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