Napoleonic British Light Infantry / Grenadier Flank Officer's Sabre, sold

In good condition, a Napoleonic British light infantry / grenadier regiment flank officer's sabre and scabbard.

For many people, the Georgian British light infantry flank officer's sabre is the closest you can get without provenance to a sword that was likely held and used in the Napoleonic Wars. This is because flank officers were specialist of line unit light infantry / grenadier regiments, rather than country regiments, so there is much more chance such a sabre was "there". This one is no exception, as there are tell tale period (you can tell by the patina and lack of rough edges) nicks to the forward cutting edge of the blade.

The plain steeply curved 71.5 cm blade is period sharpened and double edged at the tip end section, and firm in the hilt; the blade may well have been plain from the start, made as a campaign rather than dress sword / sabre. The blade with light pitting and attractive patina, plus period nicks to the cutting edge. The stirrup hilt is good and sound, the fishskin grip and twisted silver grip wire bindings in aged but good order. The steel scabbard aged, a little rusted, missing one suspension ring, a double sided ding, the mouth piece section mostly missing, is in sound condition. The sabre sheaths and draws fairly well; it is clear the wooden liners are perished, as you would and should expect.

A great all round sabre and one that probably was used against the Imperial French Grande Armie, so a great and evocative investment. Further / full sized images available upon request. Please quote item reference E48 (805)