EL6135 - A Wilkinson light cavalry officer's sword dating to 1862, in lovely condition and with the blade carrying the coat of arms, crest and initials of the officer. The name of the Wilkinson proof book (attached) is Ellis and this tallies with the mermaid crest and second initial on the blade. The name on the ledger (as the purchaser - not necessarily the officer) is either F. W. Ellis or J. W. Ellis. The initials on the blade seem to be W. E. to me. But interpretations may vary! There was a William Augustus Ellis in the 17th Lancers, but he did not commission until September 1863, and a Fred George Ellis in the 4th Hussars, but I have not been able to definitively match this sword to serving officer so far. There is therefore research to be done.
The sword itself is in lovely condition, not service sharpened and aside from some very light patina, the blade is bright and crisp, with good etching. Solid in the hilt. The shagreen and silver grip wire are good. The scabbard is complete with the sword, though a bit loose on the blade, as the liner has perished (the liner was leather and I had to remove it, to allow the blade to enter the scabbard - should the purchaser want the leather remnants then I have them and can of course include them).
A lovely sword and feels great in the hand. Wilkinson's finest, from an interesting period.
