This is an excellent 1856 Pattern British Pioneers Sawback Short Sword Sidearm. (see page 173 of Robson's Swords of the British Army). It has a broad 22 ½” blade with deeply cut sawback (27 ½” overall). The blade has just light staining consistent with age. One side of the blade has a crisp etched panel of the manufacturer Rob(ert) Mole & Sons Birmingham. The reverse has crisp British WD ordnance inspection marks and faint ‘Mole Birm’ mark. It has a heavy ribbed Brass handle with full knuckle bow, slotted for lanyard. The back of the rolled cross guard is crisply Regiment marked ‘M/6 MAN1’ To The 6th Manchester Militia Weapon Number 1 & dated ’3 (March)1893’ . The sidearm is complete with original leather scabbard with brass mounts. The leather of the scabbard is clean and intact. The stitching of the rear seam is mostly absent but could easily be re-stitched by a saddler. The price includes UK delivery. Sn 17683
£545.00