Victorian 1895P British Infantry Officer's Wilkinson Sword, Sold

In very good condition, a Victorian 1895 pattern British Infantry Officer's Wilkinson Sword.

The blade has serial number 13782 for 1865. The Wilkinson sales ledger apparently says the buyer was an "I King", which matches the initials "I K" etched on the blade. We have researched Harts Army list for 1866 but can not find an "I King"; perhaps he was the father of one of the several listed officers with the surname "King". Because the family crest is also on the blade, it may well be possible to identify the officer. In any event, the blade was made by Wilkinson in 1865 and put into an 1895 pattern hilt which often happened, as officers were often loathed to discard a family or otherwise special blade.

The 31 15/16 inch blade ("shorter" due to it originally being made for an 1854 pattern hilt) is in exceptional condition, period sharpened and still sharp; blade firm in the hilt. The hilt very good, the outer lip a little bent inwards, not much, possibly if not probably period. The grip and twisted grip wire bindings are good for the age. The steel scabbard with some kink and age, which really indicate the slight hilt bending is commensurate with the sword as a whole.

A great sword with an absolutely superb blade and plenty of research potential; yours for £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference P34 (0261). Further / full sized images available upon request.