Attributable Victorian Infantry Officers Sword Patent Hilt

A good, attributable Victorian Infantry Officers sword with patent solid hilt.

The guard of 'solid' 1822 pattern, This has recieved some blows, to the area around the ricasso, and consequently has some deformation. Part of the "flowers of the union" beneath the VR cypher are absent. However, the sword is solid in the hilt, although there is some small movement to the grip ferrule below the chequered gutta percha grips, which are bound with copper twistwire.

The 1845 pattern single fullered blade is marked at the ricasso "Patent Solid Hilt" above the retailers details "Phillips&Son, 13 George St, Hannover Sqre, London". The proof slug is blank, and likely a replacement, although Phillips are known to have sourced thier swords from Pillin, a swordmaker which produced quality patent hilts on a par with Wilkinson. Phillips&Son were a "Court and Militay Tailor" in business using the "&Son" form 1864 to 1870, and later "&Co" title from 1871 until 1881.

The blade carries a cartouche with the initials of "F.C.G." along with an armorial device of an armoured arm. This crest along with a search of the 1860's army lists will likely turn up the officer in question, thus opening an avenue for research.

The blade has been service sharpened and then plated during its working life. It also carries the standard foliate etching, and crowned VR cypher to both sides of the blade, all of which is still legible.

Serial number to the blades spine, along with a Centre of Percussion marking.

Blade length 32.25 inches.

Housed in its original steel dress scabbard with twin suspension rings, which is highly polished, with areas of light rust. 

Overall condition is good, and despite its flaws outlined above, which speak of an interesting service life,  it remains a scarce sword with research potential. 

Strictly over 18's only. Photo ID will be required before this item can be dispatched.