*British, Georgian (King’s Crown), 1827 Pattern Royal Navy Officer’s Sword, Scabbard & Sword Knot, by Gieves Ltd London*
A good example of the Royal Navy Officer’s Dress Sword following the long-established 1827 Pattern, complete with its original leather and brass-mounted scabbard and naval sword knot. The sword retains the characteristic lion-head pommel, Gothic half-basket brass guard with crowned fouled-anchor cartouche, and white shagreen grip bound with twisted wire. The inner guard section remains hinged, designed to fold toward the blade and engage with a pin to the scabbard throat so the sword could sit comfortably against the officer’s side when worn.
The straight single-edged blade is deeply etched and frosted with typical Royal Navy motifs, including the crowned fouled anchor, Royal Coat of Arms, and scrolling foliage. The ricasso carries a six-pointed star proof mark indicating a proved officer-quality blade. The blade is retailer marked Gieves, and the folding guard is engraved “J.M.K.”, almost certainly the original owner’s initials. Serial number 3996 is stamped to the spine together with a separate letter “B” mark.
The sword is accompanied by its brass-mounted leather scabbard with twin suspension rings and engraved decorative mounts, together with a period naval pattern sword knot.
Approx. Measurements – Blade length: 80.5 cm. Overall length: 95.5 cm.
Historical Note:
The 1827 Pattern Royal Navy Officer’s Sword became the standard dress sword for commissioned officers of the Royal Navy and has remained the regulation ceremonial pattern for nearly two centuries. Instantly recognisable by its crowned fouled-anchor emblem, lion-head pommel and Gothic guard, the design symbolised naval authority throughout the Victorian, Edwardian and later Georgian periods.
Although the hilt design changed little from its introduction, the blade evolved over time: early pipe-back blades gave way to flatter fuller-ground examples during the mid-19th century, with later 20th-century variants adopting lighter ceremonial blades. The folding inner guard section was a practical innovation allowing the sword to rest more comfortably when worn in full dress.
This example displays a King’s Crown within the etched decoration, placing it within the Georgian period and reflecting continued private-purchase production of the 1827 pattern by prestigious naval outfitters such as Gieves Ltd of London.
Gieves Ltd was one of Britain’s most prestigious naval and military outfitters, established in the late 18th century and closely associated with the Royal Navy. Operating from key naval centres including London, Portsmouth and Devonport, the firm supplied uniforms, swords and equipment to generations of naval officers. Like many high-end outfitters, Gieves commonly retailed swords manufactured by specialist blade makers, applying their own etched retailer panels to private-purchase officer swords ordered to individual specification. Pieces bearing the Gieves name are therefore strongly associated with officer-quality dress equipment and remain highly regarded today.
*Condition*
Blade remains bright with clear etched decoration, showing expected age-related wear, light staining and polishing marks. Etched panels show a slightly raised feel from age and use. Proof mark clear. Hilt structurally sound with honest gilt wear and darkening to recesses. Shagreen grip intact with binding wire present. Folding guard functions correctly. Guard engraved “J.M.K.”. Leather scabbard displays age-related wear and loss to the original black surface finish, now showing areas of underlying brown leather and natural patination. Surface crazing and handling marks consistent with long-term use and storage. Brass mounts remain tight with light surface wear and minor rubbing to the engraved decoration. Sword knot present with age-related wear and fraying. Overall a good untouched example showing honest period use and age. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMBEOXDEO_7714229579
