A scarce 1845/92 Infantry Officers Sword By Wilkinson

A very fine example, which dates from March 1892, and is one of the first officers swords to be fitted with the new regulation 1892 pattern blade, whilst retaining the older 1822 pattern infantry hilt.

The Sword of Major St George John Rathborne, 66th Foot, Berkshire Regiment. 

A career soldier, born in 1846, and joined the 66th Berkshire Regiment in Decemeber 1868. He served in the Afghan war in 1879-80 as Transport officer of the Koorum Valley Field Force, taking part in the Zaimusht Expedition (Medal). He Served with the 1st Battalion Berkshire Regiment throughout the Egyptian War of 1882, being present at the Surrender of Kafr Dowar (Medal and Khedives Star)

He served throughout the campaign in Eastern Soudan in 1885, again with the 1st battalion. and was present in the engagements at Hasheen and the Tofrek Zereba, where he was mentioned in despatches (published in the London Gazette August 25th, 1885) He further took part in the advance to, and burning of Temai (two clasps). He served with the Egyptian Frontier Field Force in 1885-86 and was present with the Mounted Infantry in the engagement at Giniss. 

I suspect, he decided to "upgrade" his sword on recieving his promotion to Major. and after his return from Egypt. I suspect having the "latest" type of blade was a in this choice, or perhaps his original sword had been damaged, or failed him in some way whilst on campaign.

The brass hilt of regulation 1822 infantry officers pattern, with shagreen grip bound in twistwire. No deformation to the guard, and the shagreen in good order, with some minor service wear.

The single fullered 32.5 inch blade of 1892 pattern, with Wilkinson's details to one ricasso, and proof slug to the other, and serial number to the spine. 

The blade is fully etched with one panel bearing Rathborne's initials (St.G.J.R) which are unique, alongside the standard floral engraving, royal coat of arms, and crowned VR cypher.  It remains bright in appearance, with some minor staining.

Housed its original brass scabbard with twin hanging rings for officers of field rank. Minor dings/dents, and a slight bend, but in overall good condition.

The sword is pretty close to being mint, and its short lived combination of features, as well as its solid attribution to Rathborne, makes it a very desirable sword, with good potential for further research.

Strictly over 18's only. Photo ID will be required before this item can be dispatched. Please send this at the time of ordering, to prevent unnecessary delay in your order being dispatched.