English Short Sword

Bryan.H · 24th October 2009, 01:23 AM

Trawlling through the oldsword.com database (looking for something entirely different!) I came accross this one. The Hilt is virtually identical to the sword discussed here (without the portcullis shell guard), but made by Wilkinson. This example is dated 1853. I'm starting to think of this sword as a 'presentation' blade', similar to private purchase poignards awarded for civillian and military service or excellence.

Item Description (Item Id: 22764)

ANTIQUE 1853 WILKINSON PRESENTATION SWORD
A very unusual and possibly unique sidearm made by Henry Wilkinson and etched on the blade :PRESENTED TO JAMES MONROE BY THE COMPANY JUNE 1853.As there is no reference to the presenter other than the company.it was possibly given by Wilkinsons, to someone conected with them.I have never seen one like it. There are similarities to the military band swords of the period, and it is reminicant of a Royal Scottish Archers sword I once owned a few years ago.The overall length is 26 inches, and the blade is 19 1/2 inches. The fittings are nickle and the grip is rayskin bound with wire.The scabard is leather with nickle mounts.the overall condition is nice,the blade retaining a good polish,with some light staining but no pitting.

24th October 2009, 01:23 AM	#28
Bryan.H Member Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Australia Posts: 51	Same pattern... Trawlling through the oldsword.com database (looking for something entirely different!) I came accross this one. The Hilt is virtually identical to the sword discussed here (without the portcullis shell guard), but made by Wilkinson. This example is dated 1853. I'm starting to think of this sword as a 'presentation' blade', similar to private purchase poignards awarded for civillian and military service or excellence. Item Description (Item Id: 22764) ANTIQUE 1853 WILKINSON PRESENTATION SWORD A very unusual and possibly unique sidearm made by Henry Wilkinson and etched on the blade :PRESENTED TO JAMES MONROE BY THE COMPANY JUNE 1853.As there is no reference to the presenter other than the company.it was possibly given by Wilkinsons, to someone conected with them.I have never seen one like it. There are similarities to the military band swords of the period, and it is reminicant of a Royal Scottish Archers sword I once owned a few years ago.The overall length is 26 inches, and the blade is 19 1/2 inches. The fittings are nickle and the grip is rayskin bound with wire.The scabard is leather with nickle mounts.the overall condition is nice,the blade retaining a good polish,with some light staining but no pitting.