Code: 12298
An very good attributed Royal Navy Officers Sword, by Wilkinson Sword.
This example is named on the top scabbard locket "R. Montagu-Leeds R.N."
Lieutenant-Commander Roland Montagu Leeds (19 April, 1893 – 29 March, 1933) served during WW1, spending the first eighteen months of the war in the destroyer "Welland" on the China Station. He was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant on 15 February, 1916 and made second-in-command of the destroyer "Acheron". He fought in her at the Battle of Jutland as part of the First Destroyer Flotilla.
Leeds was extremely gifted in language, speaking French, Spanish and Japanese well enough to act as an interpreter (There is a suggestion he may have been seconded for service with Naval Inteligence). He won the Ryder Memorial Prize for 1916. In February 1917, he was appointed to the destroyer Rapid, again as second-in-command. He would command the ship for about one month shortly after the war ended.
Leeds was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant-Commander on 15 April, 1924. Leeds was taken ill in Argentina in 1933 and died there following an appendectomy.
This sword was produced by Wilkinson sword, on behalf of the naval tailors "Gieve Matthews and Seagrove Ltd". The WIlkinson proof ledger number dates this sword to the start of 1913.
The gothic 1827 pattern guard is of the scarcer solid type, and bears the crowned fouled anchor in a cartouche. The grip of white ray skin, bound with copper twistwire. The pommel and backstrap is formed as lion and is mane. It also carries the locking catch more often associated with the Midshipman's dirk, a seldom seen optional extra, like the solid guard.
The 31.75 inch 1845 pattern single fullered blade has been service sharpened. It carries the Wilkinson sword maker details at the ricasso, along with the "best proof" hexagonal "HW" proof slug surrounded by interlocking triangles. The blade is also marked for the retailer ""Gieve Matthews and Seagrove Ltd". The blade carries the standard floral etching withing roped border, crowned anchor, royal coat of arms, etc. The blade is generally bright and clean. There is scattered old pitting on both sides of the blade, and the spine. Wilkinson serial number and "London made" to the spine.
The sword is housed in its original black leather scabbard with brass mounts. The top mount has a shield bearing the Wilkinson makers details. It also has the safety catch mechanism, which functions as it should. Some minor marks, and the main seam has begun to split, but good solid condition overall.
A pleasing historical Great War period Royal Navy sword with great research potential.
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.
