Code: 12256
A very good, iconic and desirable 1796 Heavy Cavalry Troopers Sword of the Napoleonic Wars.
The hilt has had the inner guard cut and ground to reduce fraying of the troopers tunics, and to make it more comfortable in wear. This was an issue identified as early as 1797, and was likely done quite early in its service life. It does however, retain its original langets, which were also sometimes removed, at the discretion of the commanding officer. It retains its original quillion.
The leather grip in good overall condition, with some minor shrinkage and wear, most noticable at the "beak" where it has worn through to the wooden core. Slight movement in the ferrule.
The blade has been officially converted from a hatchet to a spear point, and now measures 34 inches in length. The common story is that this modification was carried out on the eve of Waterloo, to better penetrate French Greatcoats and Curassiars armour.
The whole exterior of the sword carries and even salt and pepper patina. The blade has obviously been cleaned at some point during its lifespan, and now only a very faint point of balance marking remains to the blades spine.
Housed in its original iron scabbard, with twin hanging rings. Some areas of damage, but generally solid, and a scarce survival in its own right.
Although officially superceded in 1821, this sword continued to serve with some regiments until at least 1832, and longer with yeomanry, and colonial units, and some were officially convered for use as cutlasses.
A scarce Napoleonic survival, and continually appreciating in value.
Strictly over 18's only. Photo ID will be required before this item can be dispatched. Please send this at the time of ordering, to prevent unnecessary delay in your order being dispatched.
