ELC1027 - This is a rare pre-numbered (pre-1854) Wilkinson officer's sword, etched to the Rifle Brigade. Marked Rifle Brigade swords of this period are rare and the Rifles pattern sword did not become common until 1859 with the explosion of the Rifle Volunteers movement. This sword dates to 1845-1854 and is probably from the early 1850s. It has been service sharpened and therefore is likely to have seen action with the Rifle Brigade in one of their 1850s campaigns, such as the Crimean War or Indian Mutiny. The blade is regulation length and 1 inch wide, with clear and detailed etching. The blade is firm in the hilt. The steel guard is expertly crafted, with intricate horn emblem used by the Rifles. The shagreen and silver grip wire are in good condition and it is complete with the original scabbard. A lovely sword and you would be hard pressed to find another Crimean era Wilkinson Rifle Brigade sword.
