*British, Victorian, Pattern 1845 Royal Navy Cutlass*
- Original British Pattern 1845 Royal Navy cutlass.
- Characteristic plain black sheet-steel bowl guard.
- Traditional ribbed cast iron grip designed for secure use in maritime conditions.
- Broad, slightly curved single-edged blade with reinforced spear point.
- Honest, untouched example displaying authentic Victorian service wear.
- No discernible maker's, War Department or inspection markings.
An original British Pattern 1845 Royal Navy cutlass retaining its characteristic broad single-edged blade, plain black sheet-steel bowl guard and ribbed cast iron grip. Designed under George Lovell, Inspector of Small Arms, the Pattern 1845 introduced the fully enclosed bowl guard, providing significantly improved hand protection over earlier Royal Navy cutlasses and becoming the standard naval sidearm throughout much of the Victorian period
The blade is of typical late Pattern 1845 form, with a gentle curve extending to a reinforced spear point incorporating a subtle raised medial ridge towards the tip. The hilt comprises the original plain black sheet-steel bowl guard with integral knuckle bow and a ribbed cast iron grip, designed to provide a secure hold in wet maritime conditions. The broad, unembellished bowl guard is characteristic of the Pattern 1845 and provides excellent protection to the hand while reflecting the practical, utilitarian design of Victorian Royal Navy edged weapons. The sword remains an excellent representative of Britain's principal naval fighting sword of the Victorian era.
No maker's, War Department or inspection marks are discernible, likely as a result of age, service wear and historic cleaning. Nevertheless, the construction, dimensions and overall profile are entirely consistent with surviving examples of the British Pattern 1845 Royal Navy cutlass.
Approximate Measurements: Overall length: 87cm. Blade length: 72cm. Blade width at ricasso: 3.5cm
History Note:
The Pattern 1845 Royal Navy cutlass was introduced following the adoption of George Lovell's innovative design, replacing the earlier figure-of-eight hilt with a robust sheet-steel bowl guard that offered greatly improved hand protection during close-quarters combat. Intended for boarding actions, landing parties and general naval service, the pattern remained the Royal Navy's principal cutlass for over four decades and underwent a number of official refinements during its service life before being superseded by the Pattern 1889.
The blade length of approximately 72cm is consistent with later service examples of the Pattern 1845, reflecting the gradual evolution of the pattern during its long period of Royal Navy service. Unlike the succeeding Pattern 1889, which introduced a straight blade and a redesigned bowl guard with a reinforced rolled rim, the Pattern 1845 retained its characteristic slightly curved blade and broader plain sheet-steel bowl guard. Today, original Victorian Royal Navy cutlasses are increasingly sought after for their historical association with the Royal Navy during the height of the British Empire.
*Condition*
Presented in good overall condition commensurate with age and service. The blade retains its original profile with an attractive aged patina, scattered areas of surface staining, light pitting and evidence of historic cleaning. The cutting edge and spear point remain intact without significant damage. The black japanned sheet-steel bowl guard is structurally sound, retaining much of its original finish with expected handling wear and areas of surface oxidation. The ribbed cast iron grip remains secure with honest wear consistent with prolonged military service. No discernible maker's, government acceptance or inspection marks are visible. Please look at photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.
RQMBEOXEEO_1918248309
