1796 Heavy Cavalry Officer's Full Dress Sword by J. J. Runkel

EL6486 - A 1796 pattern Heavy Cavalry officer's full dress sword, by J. J. Runkel of Solingen (died 1808). Runkel was actually based in London and imported his blades from Solingen. He was one of the biggest sellers of officers' swords in this period. The sword is in very good condition, bright in the blade with clear engraving to the fullers on both sides. The blade is 31 inches long. The hilt is in equally good condition, with a fantastic silver wire grip in excellent condition. However, the hilt is rather loose on the tang, due probably to the loss of the washer between the guard and blade shoulder. This could probably be mitigated with a new washer, or with shims. Nevertheless, a very attractive sword from 1796-1808.