*British, c. 1910–1952, Royal Marines King’s Crown Swagger Stick*
A British Royal Marines swagger stick measuring 64.8 cm in overall length, fitted with an ornate white-metal pommel and a polished honey-coloured cane shaft. The pommel is finely cast in high relief, displaying the Royal Marines badge comprising a crowned globe and laurel wreath above a scroll bearing the title “ROYAL MARINES”, surrounded by dense foliate scrollwork.
The pommel measures approximately 2 cm in diameter, with the white-metal top section measuring 5.9 cm in height. The cane shaft is smoothly finished and terminates in a plain ferrule.
Approx. Measurements - Overall length: 64.8 cm. Pommel diameter: 2 cm, White-metal pommel height: 5.9 cm
Historical Note:
Swagger sticks were worn by British officers and senior non-commissioned officers from the late Victorian period through the mid-20th century, serving as a symbol of authority, discipline, and regimental pride. Within the Royal Marines, such sticks reinforced the Corps’ distinct identity as both soldiers and sailors, and were frequently privately purchased.
This example bears the King’s Crown, placing its manufacture firmly between 1902 and 1952, spanning the reigns of Edward VII, George V, and George VI. The style of the badge, depth of relief, and overall finish are most consistent with inter-war to early Second World War production (c. 1920s–1940s). Following the accession of Queen Elizabeth II in 1952, Royal Marines insignia adopted the Queen’s Crown, making this a definitively pre-1953 piece.
*Condition*
The swagger stick is in very good original condition. The white-metal pommel shows light age-related wear and natural patination, with casting seams visible under close inspection and no evidence of later polishing or replating. The cane shaft remains straight and sound, with minor handling marks consistent with age and use. No cracks, losses, or repairs observed. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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