[Brian McColpin]

Hello Everyone,

I’m hoping that some knowledgeable person out there may be able to assist me in identifying a sword and scabbard that has been in my family for many years. I have already received help with identifying the hilt as the 1895 Pattern and the proof slug to be from S. J. Pillen, but I'd still like to know more about the blade itself.

I believe the hilt to be Victorian because it bears the royal cipher of Queen Victoria set over the lower knuckle bow of the guard and the motto of the Monarch of the United Kingdom in England, Dieu et mon droit, is etched on the blade.

The length of the blade is 32 1/4 inches (819 mm) long and 1 inch (25.4 mm) wide at the shoulder.
What I would like to learn is:

1. The date of the blade was made if it was not manufactured at the same time as the hilt.
2. Does the beaver etching indicate that it was made for a Canadian Infantry Officer?

I look forward to hearing from anyone who can help shed some light on this small mystery. Thank you.

Sincerely,
Brian McColpin

[Jonathan Hopkins]

Brian,
From what I can see it is a Pattern 1895 Infantry Officer's Sword for a Canadian officer. The P proof slug was used by Pillin, not Wilkinson. Is the proof disc the only maker/retailer mark on the sword?

Attached is a comparison of two P1895s (top) and two P1897s (bottom)...

[Jonathan Hopkins]

And another, P1895 on the left and P1897 on the right (photos not to scale, the hilts are actually about the same size)...