Elements of The Duke Of Cambridge’s Own (Middlesex Regiment) saw service in India during the late 19th century. Following the outbreak of the Second Boer War in 1899, the Regiment embarked for active service in South Africa in December 1899 and took part in the storming of Alleman's Nek in June 1900. The battalion stayed in South Africa after the end of the war (June 1902). When the Boers declared war Elements of the Royal Dublin Fusiliers took part in the first major battle of the war, the Battle of Talana Hill near Dundee. The Regiment saw much action during the war including the siege of Ladysmith. This is an original 1856 Pattern British Pioneers Sawback Short Sword Sidearm (see page 173 of Robson's Swords of the British Army) with Middlesex Regiment marks and scabbard with Royal Dublin Fusiliers marks. It has a broad 22 ½” blade with deeply cut sawback (27 ¾”overall). The blade has just light staining consistent with age. One side of the blade has German blade maker trademark of W.R. Kirschbaum & Co. of Solingen, later part of Weyersberg, Kirschbaum & Co. (WKC) together with British ordnance inspection mark, the reverse has WD Broad arrow mark and ordnance inspection mark which is repeated on the spine. It has a heavy ribbed Brass handle with full knuckle bow, slotted for lanyard. The tail of the guard has Regiment marks ‘V MX 16 13’ To The Duke Of Cambridge’s Own (Middlesex Regiment) Volunteers. The sidearm is complete with original leather scabbard with brass mounts which have dents consistent with age and service use but are totally secure. The leather of the scabbard is clean and intact. The throat mount has ‘4 1895’ date (April 1895) above Regiment marks ‘3 DF 1’ To The Royal Dublin Fusiliers. The price includes UK delivery. Sn 23174:36
£545.00