1912 Patt Cavalry Sword Wilkinson Variant
With 1821 / 1896 Hilt (Sold) |
Generally very good condition, British 1912 Pattern Cavalry Officer's
Sword variant (1821 hilt) by Wilkinson.
This has to be the most beautiful and functional cavalry sword
ever made for the British army. The 1821/1896 "honeysuckle'
hilt was long heralded as the most aesthetic (it also gave good
hand protection), the 1908/1912 blade reckoned to be the best ever;
here they are together. It is believed only 3 of these swords were
ever made by Wilkinson for special cavalry officer customers; this
one was made in 1917/1918 according to the blade number (54689)
which unfortunately is the time a gap appears in the original Wilkinson
sales ledger so the original owner can not be named; although his
initials "O R" are etched on the blade.
Apart from some surface damage (looks like sticky tape was put
across it and then removed years later taking the surface with it)
to the scabbard and a few marks here and there, this sword is in
exceptionally good condition and a joy to hold. Many variants are
where old family blades were incorporated into new hilts; this is
not such a variant, it is a special one or rather three off for
special officers. As such the sword is irreplaceable; if I sold
it, I would never get another. Further pictures available upon request.
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