[Sean Scott]

There is something about the inlaid brass PROVED discs that I find visually very appealing. I did a search and didn't find much besides casual mention on their history and purpose.

When did this begin, and why? Is there a reference for what the disc symbols mean?

Thanks!

[Jonathan Hopkins]

Slogans on blades like "Warranted" or "Warranted Not to Fail" (amongst other "proofs") became common as the 18th century drew to a close. Wilkinson has beed credited with the widespread use of the proof "slug" in the early 1850s. Wilkinson's subjected their swords to stenuous testing, and supposedly only gave these proof marks to swords that were up to snuff. The confidence bestowed by these proof marks must have been fairly substatial, as the slugs became commonplace in Victorian officer's swords. In many cases it was probably pure marketing rather than proof of testing the blade.

Harevy Withers has a nice brief section on proof marks in British Military Swords. The above basically paraphrases what he says on the topic. Withers also includes a section that depicts many various slugs by different makers which prroves useful when attempting to ID a blade that does not bear a maker's name. It also illustrates the variety of styles one can encounter.

Best,
Jonathan

[Sean Scott]

Thank you, sir! Just the info I was looking for.