Wwi-era Irish Guards Service Dress Sword & Scabbard, Ric Connection For Sale

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Original dress sword and scabbard for the Irish Guards, circa 1906. Similar to the 1897 Pattern Infantry officer's sword, but with a heavier 34-inch etched blade blade bearing the emblem of the RIC within a garter bearing the legend "ROYAL IRISH CONSTABULARY" surmounted by a separate crown (Edward VII crown). Manufactured by T.G. Phillips, 4 Dawes Street, Dublin, sword-maker to the Crown. The gold proof pill has long ago been removed. Beautiful attention to detail throughout, despite signs of aging. The heavy guard bears a large Star of the Order of Saint Patrick (emblem of the Irish Guards)and original leather sword knot, and protects a solid handle. The leather-bound metal scabbard shows signs of wear and scuffing, but is very sound and retains the single strap that connects it to the sword frog (not included).

I've talked to a number of qualified sword collectors regarding the use of this blade on an Infantry officer's sword. The consensus is that the blade was most likely someone's RIC blade professionally refitted to reflect his new status in the Irish Guards, probably at the early stages of WWI. Unfortunately there is no accompanying documentation. This piece was brought back from Europe by a USAAF B-17 crewman, and obtained from his family.

The blade shows signs of age. While it is feasible to clean the blade lightly, we do not alter the state of any relics and recommend caution in doing so. Abrasive materials do not enhance detail; they destroy detail. This piece is far from pristine, but is in very solid condition for its age, and quite possibly unique.

Please check our other sales for more fine Irish militaria.

This item has been shown 46 times. Wwi-era Irish Guards Service Dress Sword & Scabbard, Ric Connection: $1,000