This is the classic sword of both the Royal Horseguards (for which it is actually marked on the quillan 'HG') and the Life Guards. It was made by Wilkinson Sword Company (marked 'WSC' at the forte) and has various issue stamps on the top of the scabbard for 1964, 1968 and 1983. The blade has an issue stamp for 1945.
This sword is the development of the 1821 pattern Heavy Cavalry sabre, which famously saw action at the Charge of the Heavy Brigade at Balaclava on the same day as the Light Brigade charge. However, the pierced version of this hilt is unique to the Household Cavalry. The initials HC with the king's crown above are worked into the fabric of the hilt. This sword would therefore have been made during the reign of the present queen's father, George VI. There are at present no scabbard liners for this sword - I shall endeavour to make them. (Without them, the sword can be ?400.) It comes complete with its buff leather slings.
If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.
[Edged Weapons : Swords : British : 20th Century]
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