EL6194 - A scarce Wilkinson private purchase cutlass, circa 1890. This is based on the regulation 1889P Royal Navy cutlass, but has Wilkinson's name etched on the blade, brass/bronze grip scales and no government stamps. While I have only seen a couple of these before, it is fairly accepted that they were probably what Wilkinson listed as private purchase cutlasses for private yachts and larger merchant ships. Many private sea-going vessels had to navigate dangerous waters in places like the Indian Ocean and around the coast of Africa, so they armed themselves with small arms and hand weapons like these. The scabbard is unfortunately missing, but the push-button and catch are there, which would have clipped the sword into place (useful when climbing around over water!). These are pretty rare and not well documented, but of course Wilkinson were the pre-eminent sword makers of the day and this is a great quality piece. The condition is average, with dark patina to the blade and hilt, and light pitting to the guard. It is however all as solid as a rock and a very substantial piece.
