EL6303 - An unusual South African cavalry officer's sword from around WW1 (1912 pattern), by Wilkinson. This is a Wilkinson-made 1912 pattern cavalry officer's sword, but it is not numbered for private purchase. Instead it carries an Enfield Small Arms Factory approval stamp and WD broad arrow, so presumably it was purchased directly by the government to equip a South African cavalry officer. The blade is service sharpened, so it was probably made during WW1. The scabbard (which has some leather loss at the bottom) is also unusual, in that it is a custom made field service scabbard for wearing with a Sam Browne belt. The blade is bright, with some areas of pitting. The hilt is complete, though the plating has gone from the guard and pommel, and these are now dark with patina. The shagreen and silver wire grip is in good condition. The inside of the guard has been painted black in period and this remains good. The hilt is solid on the tang. A very interesting sword and rather rare.
