EL6907 - A very rare non-regulation cavalry sword by Mole. The maker's name clearly visible on the ricasso, despite the corrosion. 1845 pattern style blade of 34.5 inches long, with full width Reeves patent tang, checkered hardwood grips and a guard that is clearly inspired by the 1864 pattern cavalry sword. As well as the general style of the sword, the scabbard also indicates that this was almost certainly made for Indian Army use. The scabbard is thick leather (no wooden core), stitched along the top edge, with iron chape and drag, with decorative features. It is very difficult to say whether this was made by Mole of Birmingham for a British or Indian officer, an Indian Army NCO, or even as a regimental order for cavalry troopers (sowars). My feeling is that it was a special order for a British or Indian officer. The style of grip and guard probably dates this sword to between 1864 and 1885, I think with the highest probability being an 1870s date. The condition is obviously well below average, with varying degrees of corrosion to all steel parts. The edge is a little 'nibbled' away by corrosion at one area, and the guard and scabbard fittings are very pitted from rust. The blade does not fully go into the scabbard - there is some sort of obstruction, so there is about 1 inch of ricasso showing when sheathed. There are some good aspects, namely the leather of the scabbard is supple, the wooden grips are rather good, and overall the sword is structurally sound and solid. It has been very professionally service sharpened and remains quite sharp in parts. This was clearly a very serious fighting weapon used in Indian service, perhaps around the time of the Afghan War of 1878-1881. It is also very rare, and not a model I have found documented elsewhere.
