Artists Rifles Officers Sword MC Winner

A very good 1897 Pattern Edward VII Infantry officers sword, regimentally etched to the Artists Volunteer Rifles.

The 32.5 inch blade retailed by Hobson and Sons, Lexington Street, London, although the sword itself is likely made by Pillin. The blade is etched with the original owners initials "A.E.F.S." the regimental motto"Cum Marte Minerva" (Mars with Minerva) below the regimental badge of Mars and Minerva, with the regimental designation "Artists R.V." above. The blade is also etched with the usual floral designs, swags, the royal coat of arms, and the crowned cypher of King Edward VII.

The blade has some areas of staining, but no rust or pitting to the blade. The hilt is in good condition. with no dents or knocks. There is some discolouration to the interior of the guard as one may expect, but the whole sword is completely as found, and would improve greatly from some sympathetic cleaning. Some small areas of plating loss, but these could easily be stabilsed. The grip is bound in shagreen and brass wire, and is free from loss. 

The scabbard is really very interesting, being of particarly solid construction. It has plated mounts at the throat and drag, which have been covered with leather to suppress and glare/light reflection. 

The sword of Arthur Edward Ferrour Selfe, MC.

Appointed 2^nd Lieutenant 27^th December 1907 (L.G. 14^th January 1908)

Appointed Lieutenant 4^th September 1909 (L.G. December 3^rd 1909)

Appointed Captain 7^th September 1914 (L.G. 14^th October 1914)

Appointed Temporary Captain in the Bedford Regiment 17^th December 1915 (L.G. 16^th December 1915)

Awarded the Military Cross as Lieutenant (Acting Captain) with the Coldstream Guards (L.G. 26^th September 1917)

M.C. Citation published on January 10^th 1918 and reads as follows:

At Pilkem Ridge on 31^st July 1917, For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During an attack he displayed remarkable initiative and grasp of a difficult situation in capturing his own objective, as well as a strong point outside his area which would have considerably held up the attack. On obtaining his objective he quickly reorganised, under heavy machine gun fire, and throughout this day and the following one he kept his company going under the most adverse circumstances by his splendid personal example.

A very interesting sword with a combination of features which make it rare and desirable. It would benefit from some careful cleaning to bring it back to its best.

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.