Great Scott Antiques

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Attributed 1895 Pattern Infantry Officers Sword By Wilkinson

SOLD

Code: 11003



A very good example of the short lived 1895 pattern Infantry Officers Sword.

This example produced by Wilkinson sword Ltd in October 1896. The proof ledger records that this sword was sold to Lieutenant G.E. Sharp, of the 1st Battalion, East Lancashire Regiment.

The sword in good, untouched condition. Staining to the interior and exterior of the basket, good clear crowned VR cypher. Smooth pommel with chequered backpiece. Shagreen grip 95%+ compete and bound with silver twistwire. No movement between blade and hilt.

The 32.5 inch single fullered 1892 pattern blade fully etched, with Wilkinson's details at the ricasso, Proof slug and interlocking triangles, vacant escutcheons, royal coat of arms but no VR cypher, and the usual foliate swags. Blade generally bright with clear etching, some light staining, no pitting. 

Housed in its original brown leather field service scabbard, with unusual 8 inch steel drag, likely a custom request for a soldier going overseas, complete with sword hanger, all in good condition.

George Edward Sharp joined the East Lancashire Regiment direct from Sandhurst as a 2nd Lieutenant in May 1891. He served in the South African war in 1900-02. He took part in operations in the Orange Free State Feb. to May 1900, including actions at Karee Siding, Vet River and Zand River ; in operations in theTransvaal in 1900 (action near Johannesburg), in Orange River Colony 1901; in Cape Colony 1901-02 (Queen's Medal with three Clasps, King's Medal with two Clasps).

He was later served in the Army Pay Department, where he was awarded a Mentioned in Despatches, and promoted Brevet Lieutenant Colonel, in Febuary 1918. He was awarded an OBE in 1919.

Plenty of research left for the next owner, sadly I only have time for a cursory glance. Complete with a digital copy of the Wilkinson proof ledger page for this sword.

Strictly over 18's only. Photo ID will be required before this item can be dispatched.