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Title Cavalry trooper's sabre, model 1885 (Solingen contract)
Nationality British
Period c 1885/86
Sold

This classic sabre was developed from the 1882 model which had no stop under the pommel and a shorter blade, at 33" instead of 34.25" as on this example, with a domed pommel unlike the flat one of the 1882 and 1890 models. This was first issued to the 3rd Dragoon Guards in 1886 and finally the Yorkshire Yeomanry Dragoons.

The sword was made by Weyersberg Kirschbaum & Cie, the famed Solingen firm, part of an 18,000 contract, and has issue marks for 1886, 1895, 1896 on the blade, with 1887 and 1897 on the hilt. The scabbard has two issue stamps, one for 1885 and one for 1894 (Yorkshire Yeomanry Dragoons). Scabbard has a YYD weapon number of 273, hilt has YYD number 178.

The blade has most of its original factory finish with minor scarring on one side at the point. It does not appear to have been sharpened. One scabbard throat screw is missing. The chequered leather grips are in excellent shape with little age wear. The original wood scabbard liners are present and there is only a light grey surface patina to both this and the hilt.

This has to be one of the nicest '85 patterns I've had through my hands in 40 years or so!

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


[Edged Weapons : Swords : British : 19th Century]

testimonials

Having received the beautiful medal that has been the subject of many recent phone calls, I am absolutely delighted with it. More importantly, the research you provided into the military backgrounds of all those involved made it all the more poignant. Thank you for your highly professional and friendly help and advice throughout the transaction.

Edward Hudson, UK, 10.02.2011

MANY THANKS CHRIS, BUCKLE ARRIVED THIS MORNING, GREAT SERVICE. SUPERB BUCKLE.

M H, UK, 20.02.2008

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