*British, Royal Navy 1827 Pattern Officer’s Sword & Scabbard by Robert Mole & Sons, retailed by Edwards & Gittings, Gillingham*
A fine Victorian / Edwardian Royal Navy Officer’s 1827 Pattern Dress Sword with blade by Robert Mole & Sons and retailer’s panel for Edwards & Gittings, Gillingham; complete with its regulation leather and brass-mounted scabbard. A desirable naval officer’s sidearm with strong dockyard provenance.
The blade measures 79.5 cm (94 cm overall, unsheathed), of single-fullered form, with bright finish and crisp acid-etched decoration. Panels include the crowned fouled anchor, Royal Arms - shield, crown, garter with motto (“Dieu et mon droit”), and the lion and unicorn figures flanking either side, floral scrolls, and foliate cartouches. A gilt proof disc inset at the ricasso is stamped “Proved R.M.&S”, identifying manufacture by the renowned Birmingham swordmaker Robert Mole & Sons. The retailer’s panel reads: “Edwards & Gittings, High Street, Gillingham” – a naval outfitter supplying officers at nearby Chatham Dockyard.
The gilt brass guard of regulation half-basket form bears the crowned fouled anchor in relief. The backstrap terminates in a finely cast lion-head pommel, a traditional naval motif. The shagreen grip bound with twisted gilt wire, all intact. The folding inner guard remains functional.
The scabbard is of black leather with gilt brass mounts comprising locket, middle band, and chape, with suspension rings to the upper mounts, engraved with decorative line and scrollwork.
Historical Note:
The 1827 Pattern Royal Navy sword was first introduced following the death of Admiral Viscount Exmouth and became the standard officer’s dress sword of the Victorian and Edwardian Navy, a role it retains ceremonially to this day. The crowned fouled anchor on the guard and etched blade served as an instantly recognisable emblem of naval authority.
Robert Mole & Sons were one of Britain’s foremost sword manufacturers, supplying blades to outfitters, the military, and the Admiralty throughout the 19th century. The presence of the R.M.&S proof slug firmly links this example to Mole’s Birmingham workshops.
Edwards & Gittings of Gillingham operated near the gates of Chatham Dockyard, one of the Navy’s principal dockyards. They were well placed to supply officers being commissioned, promoted, or outfitted for service, and their name on this sword adds desirable provenance.
*Condition*
The blade retains much of its bright finish, with clear etching throughout and some light age-related staining and speckling. The gilt brass guard shows an attractive mellow patina with minor wear, the crowned anchor device well defined. The shagreen grip is complete, showing even age tone, with its wire binding secure. The folding guard operates correctly. The scabbard leather is sound, with a small crease from age, the brass mounts of pleasing tone with light verdigris in recessed areas. Overall, a very good, original example. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMDOOXEEO_4573215398
