*British, George V Era, Pattern 1827 Royal Navy Officer’s Parade Sword with Scabbard & Portepee*
A highly attractive and exceptionally displayable George V era British Royal Navy Officer’s Pattern 1827 parade sword retaining its original brass-mounted leather scabbard together with a period bullion naval portepee knot. This example presents particularly well overall and features a notably crisp etched blade with strong surviving frosted decoration across both faces.
The slightly curved, single-fullered cut-and-thrust blade is richly decorated with exceptionally crisp, frosted etching throughout much of its length. One side features an elegant stylized retail monogram beneath a “By Appointment” Royal Warrant banner, denoting supply through an officially appointed cutler or military outfitter to the Crown. The reverse side displays a detailed British Royal Coat of Arms beneath a radiant sunburst motif alongside further foliate and naval ornamentation. Additional etched panels include crowned fouled anchors, scrolling ropework, and oakleaf sprays associated with Royal Navy officer swords of the period. The ricasso retains a traditional six-pointed star proof panel housing its intact brass “Proved” slug.
The gilt brass hilt remains especially attractive, comprising the regulation solid half-basket guard prominently decorated with the crowned fouled anchor badge of the Royal Navy. The reverse features the characteristic lion’s head pommel with rounded capstan finial and textured mane detailing. The white fishskin grip remains intact and retains its original twisted copper wire binding tightly in place throughout.
The sword is accompanied by its original black leather regulation scabbard fitted with engraved gilt brass mounts and twin suspension rings. The decorative brass fittings remain sharply detailed and complement the sword well visually. A period bullion naval portepee remains fitted to the guard, further enhancing the presentation and originality of the piece.
Approx. Measurements – Blade Length: 79.5 cm Overall Length: 93.5 cm
History Note:
The Pattern 1827 Royal Navy Officer’s sword became the standard regulation sidearm for commissioned British naval officers during the 19th century and continued in service, with minor modifications, well into the 20th century. By the George V period, these swords had evolved into highly ceremonial yet symbolically important dress weapons worn during formal occasions, inspections, court functions, and naval parades. The crowned fouled anchor remained the enduring emblem of Royal Navy authority and maritime tradition throughout the height of the British Empire.
*Condition*
Presented in very good overall antique condition. The blade remains bright with much of the original frosted etching still exceptionally clear and well defined, though some isolated sections have softened slightly through age, light polishing, and handling. The blade retains a pleasing overall appearance with only light surface age wear visible. The gilt brass hilt maintains an attractive aged tone with honest handling wear and minor surface marks throughout. Fishskin grip and wire binding remain intact, secure, and visually strong. The bullion portepee displays light age-related wear but remains complete and highly displayable. The leather scabbard exhibits expected age wear, surface scuffing, and an area of looseness / flexibility to the central section causing slight “floppy” movement. The upper locking pin/button to the throat mount is absent. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMCEOXFOO_3974246129
