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Title 1796 pattern heavy cavalry officer's sword
Nationality British
Period c 1800
Sold

This sword was carried as a dress sword not only by heavy cavalry officers, but also by officers of the militia (viz Dighton's drawings of the period). The forte has the maker's mark 'Drury Warranted', only just visible on account of old corrosion. This was a firm of goldsmiths who became sword cutlers about 1789, working from 32 Strand, W. London.

William Drury, who sold this sword, was also 'Cutler to his Majesty', his firm making silver hilts for hangers, sabres and smallswords since about 1770. The firm started as goldsmiths in 1711.

There are everal dents to the scabbard of this fairly hard to find sword, with numerous brazing repairs to the seam. The grip has been carefully rewired with modern fuse wire, which is too thin but does not present an unpleasing appearance as it has been carefully aged. No trace of gilding remains to the hilt and the blade has suffered some corrosion and has then been cleaned down.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.


[Edged Weapons : Swords : British : 19th Century]

testimonials

[From a vendor, rather than a buyer]

I'm delighted that you are happy with the badge and I hope you can sell it to someone who will value owning it.

I tried to sell it on eBay but they won't accept Nazi items. I then contacted several dealers via a Google search who mostly offered me £40-£50 after some haggling. Most of the other dealers tried to conceal its true value in their replies and also lacked manners which doesn't inspire confidence.

Ultimately it's about trust. I should think that most prospective sellers have done their own research and therefore know roughly what their item is worth. You were the only dealer who had the integrity to concede that my valuation was approximately correct and I respect your comment that you can't offer this as you need to make a profit. Your honest approach is greatly appreciated and I felt comfortable taking the risk in sending it to you.

Thank you for a smooth transaction

C D, UK, 01.07.2015

The belt buckle arrived this morning. I'm delighted with it. I've been after one for years.

H S, UK, 11.02.2014

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