Code: 12273
A very good Royal Irish Constabulary officers sword.
The hilt of gothic 1827 Rifles pattern, in steel, with the crowned harp cartouche in place of the strung bugle. Shagreen grip bound with copper twistwire in very good order. Stepped pommel, the backpiece with smooth thumb rest. The hilt does have some light pitting, and the whole would benefit from a clean and polish.
The fullered 32.5 inch blade is etched to the ricasso with the makers details"Ireland&Sons 12&13 Ellis's Quay, Dublin"
John Ireland is recorded at this address between 1856 and 1858. After this time is is recorded as trading solely from number 13 Ellis's Quay. He seems to have been the main supplier of uniform, swords and accoutrements to the Royal Irish Constabulary. He also held a patent for the design of the RIC sword belt.
To the opposite ricasso, the proof slug is contained within a starburst, and features a fleur de lis. The blade is skillfully etched, andfeatures floral decoration, and crowned Victorian royal cypher.
The blade is generally bright and clean, but does have some light staining.
This is the first RIC sword of the Victorian period I have owned which has a fullered blade. Of the three other examples I have owned over the years, all have had a "flat solid" blade.
The sword is housed in its original steel scabbard with twin hanging rings. This is only the second RIC officers sword I've handled to have a steel scabbard, the others all had brass scabbards. This example is original to the sword, and is in good solid condtion, and free from any splits. It has the same patina as the hilt.
A rare sword, which can be tied down to a very small date window.
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.
