*British, 1854 Pattern Infantry Officers Sword & Scabbard, by Henry Wilkinson, Made in 1885, Boer War Service *
This is an excellent example of a Victorian 1854 pattern infantry officers sword made by Henry Wilkinson in 1885 and likely saw service in the Anglo Boer War.
The serial number "26750" is engraved on the spine which dates the sword to 1885 when Wilkinson made 878 swords - serial numbers 26193-27070. The blade terminates in a spear point and is etched on both sides with panels of scrolling foliage above and below a rayed crown and the cypher of Queen Victoria, single fuller to both sides. The ricasso is engraved with the maker details of "Henry Wilkinson" and the start of the address is just discernable as "Pall" short for Pall Mall, London. The obverse has the distinctive HW proof plug. Gothic brass guard. An oval within the guard bears the cypher of Queen Victoria above the flowers of the union. Shagreen wrapped grip with twisted copper wire. The sword is complete with its steel scabbard with twin suspension rings.
83cm blade, 98cm overall.
Founded in 1772 by Henry Nock, Wilkinson Sword quickly rose to prominence under Nock's leadership. The British Government's order of 10,000 flintlock muskets and bayonets in 1804 solidified the company's reputation as a premier gun maker. James Nock, succeeding his father-in-law, became Gun Maker to George III, marking the start of a long association with the British monarchy. Upon James Nock's death in 1804, James Wilkinson took over, and in 1824, Henry Wilkinson expanded the company into sword manufacturing. Recognizing the inadequacies of rival swords, Henry collaborated closely with military customers, experimenting with forging blades. In 1844, the sword testing machine, Eprouvette, was developed, continuing to play a crucial role in Wilkinson's manufacturing. Passing rigorous tests granted swords proof marks and certificates, ensuring personal testing by Henry or John Latham. From 1854 each sword received a unique number for traceability.
*Condition*
The Sword has some age and service related wear and tear. The engraving is faint in parts, the edge of the sword has some nicks and there is some pitting and discolouration, the tip is blunted. The shagreen grip is worn. The scabbard has some rusting and some holes to the metal. The scabbard fits securely. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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