*British, 1901-1910, Edward VII 1897 Pattern Infantry Officers Sword and Original Steel Scabbard, Thurkle Proof Mark, Excellent Condition*
Approx: 98.5cm overall, 81.8cm blade.
This 1897 pattern infantry officers’ sword is a straight-bladed, three-quarter basket-hilted sword. It has been the regulation sword for officers of the line infantry of the British Army from 1897 to the present day. The 1897 pattern is distinguished from the 1895 pattern by the turn-up on the inner edge coupled with the generally smaller holes in the decoration of the guard on the hilt, though they are fundamentally very similar. It comes with its steel scabbard which has two suspension rings.
An 1897 Pattern Infantry Officer’s dress sword, 32 1/4-inch blade with half-length fuller and arabesque decoration, proof button, pierced white-metal guard with Edward VII monogram and wire-bound mesh grip, domed pommel, shagreen grip with firm twistwire binding. The proof mark has a T. in the middle which is associated with Thurkle.
The Thurkle sword-making family’s history is somewhat elusive due to a fire that reportedly destroyed their company records in 1912. They were a prominent dynasty of sword makers, establishing their business in 1749 and operating until 1897 when they were acquired by the outfitter Gaunt & Sons. The majority of swords bearing the Thurkle mark or featuring a Thurkle proof slug were produced under the direction of Edward Thurkle senior (1833-1895) or in collaboration with his sons, Edward and George, from 1889 onwards until its acquisition in 1897. Subsequently, Edward Thurkle’s name continued to be used on swords sold by Gaunt & Sons, still accompanied by the Thurkle proof slug. The proof slug associated with these later years typically featured the letter “T” at the center, similar to the one observed here.
*Condition*
This sword is in excellent condition. There is very minor signs of wear and tear to the shagreen grip. The Scabbard fits well – slightly loose and is in great condition with minor dings commensurate with age and service. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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