Code: 11991
An interesting named Wilkinson 1827 Pattern Rifle Officers Sword.
This example by Wilkinson of Pall Mall, can be dated to December 1859.
It bears an etched panel to the blade, which reads: "Alexander Skene". The only possible candidate serving in the British Army in 1859 is a Major Alexander Skene, of the 4th Veterans Battlion. He has a long, and interesting military career:
Commissioned as an Ensign, on August 1807 from the Aberdeen Militia, serving with the 24th Regiment, promoted Lieutenant in July 1809, serving at the Battle of Talavera, where he was severely wounded and further promoted Captain in November 1813. For his services in the Peninsula, he was awarded the medal, with clasp. His next promotion, to Major was some 31 years later, in Novermber 1854, serving with the 4th Royal Veterans Battalion! Still serving in 1864!
I have seen another source, which states that Skene was taken prisoner at Talavera, and was later exchanged in July 1813. He was awarded a pension of £100 per annum for the loss of his leg. Whether this occured at Talavera, or whilst in captivity with the French, would need further research.
This page offers a good account of the 24th at Talavera, and mentions Skene as being wounded, it can be read: HERE.
Quite why or how he decided to purchase this sword, is unknown, perhaps it was a gift purchased for him by friends, or his brother officers.
The sword is an 1827 pattern light infantry officers sword. The guard of the gothic 1827 pattern , smooth back strap with chequered thumb rest, and stepped pommel all have an grey coloured, salt and pepper patina, which could be cleaned and polished if desired. The shagreen grip in quite good condition, with some small areas of loss, but retaining its original silver twistwire binding. The outer guard, with its strung bugle within a plain cartouche, have been canted or bent upwards.
The single fullered 32.5 inch blade of 1845 pattern. Wilkinson makers marking and Pall Mall address to one ricasso, and thier trademark "H.W" proof slug to the other. The blade is very clean and bright, and well decorated with the earlier type Wilkinson etching. "VR" crowned royal cypher, with a vacant shield to one side, a strung bugle, and the standard foliate engraving in addition to the named panel. It has some small areas of scattered light staining which would likely be improved by a gentle polish. Wilkinson proof number and centre of percussion marking to the spine. The hilt and blade are solid with no movement.
Housed in its original steel scabbard with twin hanging rings. This with some dings and dents, no longer quite straight, but it has protected the blade well. Matching patination to blade and scabbard.
An interesting sword, which although too young to have been there, has Peninsula War connections, and I don't belive I have owned a sword to a veterans battalion before, so an interesting combination, well worth further research.
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.
