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Title 1796 pattern Light Cavalry officer's sabre
Nationality British
Period c 1801-03
Sold

This fine sword, marked 'H.OSBORN's//Warrented' (Henry Osborn at this point had a factory at Bordesley Mills, Birmingham), has a 32.75" blade with the 1801-16 royal arms and a 95% blue and gold finish. The blade has never been sharpened. Since Osborn was made cutler to the king in 1803, it almost certainly dates this piece between 1801-03.

The hanging rings on the scabbard have been somewhat crudely replaced, probably by the local blacksmith in its working life, since, as this sword has never been sharpened, it probably belonged to an officer of the yeomanry and could thus have served through two generations. The normal hanging rings would have been of the split ring variety. The grip is of leather and is bound with three strands of silver wire, which are complete.

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 goods are safely in and I am delighted. Many thanks for the outstanding handling of this order and I hope we can do many more.

M R, USA, 03.04.2009

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