online Militaria dealer - Antique-Militaria [UK]
magnify icon Search militaria Medals - Arms - Militaria
Home icon Antique Militaria Home for the SEs and the curious Site map People shaking hands icon Historic comments
Title 1908 pattern trooper's sword
Nationality British
Period c 1913
Sold

This sword was almost certainly used by the 5th Cavalry Brigade (regular and yeomanry units) in Syria in their campaign against the Vichy French, probably the last time the British cavalry ever carried a sword in combat. However, it is not regimentally marked - they were the only cavalry that I am aware of that were issued with swords in WW2.

It is the classic cavalry sword of the 20th century, adopted in a very similar format by the US army at about the same period. It used the concept of the thrust going quicker to the mark than any cut, and doing infinitely more damage. Ironic that when the British finally got the sword right, cavalry was virtually obsolete.

A very fine example with most of the original factory polish to the blade and various date stamps: 1913, 1916, 1918, 1927, 1931, 1935 and, finally, 1941. The blade has an Enfield inspection stamp with the broad arrow mark at the forte. The sword was probably made by Wilkinson's, and the scabbard is marked 'WSC' (Wilkinson Sword Co.) and dated 1915 and 1940. This sword is in excellent shape throughout, but has a light lacquer finish applied to scabbard and hilt, though not the vulcanite grip, and there is minor age patination to all the metalwork under the lacquer.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.


[Edged Weapons : Swords : British : 20th Century]

testimonials

The painting of Alexander Pock is restored and meanwhile at his new owner, who is very content.

Thank you for your assistance to get it to Germany.

U S, Germany, 27.12.2012

Received the Webley holster today. Thanks, it's really beautiful! ... Thanks again for your great service.

P G, France, 07.01.2008

more...