December 13-15, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/15/2022
Nice example of a Pattern 1897 Infantry Officer's sword that was presented to a captain during World War I. The presentation is located underneath the guard and reads "Presented to / Captain W.T. FISHER / by the N.C.Os & MEN of / B. COMPANY / 1st BATTALION ESSEX / VOL. REGT. / April 5th, 1917". The 1st Battalion Essex Regiment accumulated an impressive combat record during the war, starting in Mauritius when the war began, traveled back to England in 1914, trained for France, but departed for Gallipoli, landing at Cape Heles on April 25, 1915. After heavy fighting they sailed to Egypt, eventually ending up in France where the regiment experienced more hard fighting in battles such as the Somme, the Battle of Langemarck, Broodseinde, and Poelcapelle. The sword is in standard Pattern 1897 configuration with a thrusting blade that lacks sharp edges. The blade is decorated with scrollwork and English motifs. Large guard with open scrollwork and knucklebow slotted to accommodate a sword knot. Checkered backstrap with large ball finiale. Complete with steel scabbard with leather wrap. CONDITION: Blade exhibits a bright finish with scattered blemishes. Guard exhibits areas of pitting, especially at the quillon area and underside. Grip exhibits wear with several small cracks and slightly loose wire Scabbard remains sturdy with nice leather wrap that exhibits a few scattered blemishes. A nice example of a British presentation sword.