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Fortnightly Auctions Of Antiques, Collectables, General Furniture and Effects. New Lots Added Daily.

Catalogue

Lot 234: A British Court style Gilt Metal and Wire Bound Smallsword with Scabbard

This auction ended on October 14, 2026.

Start price: £10

Estimated price: £10 - £20

Buyer's Premium: 20%

A British pattern court style smallsword, featuring a slender double-edged blade with extensive decorative etching throughout its length. The hilt is constructed with a gilt-metal cross-guard in the form of a pattee-style cross, complemented by a wire-bound grip and a flattened oval pommel. The blade flat bears an etched inscription within decorative scrollwork reading PALL MALL LONDON, located below a logo and the words MADE IN. The sword is accompanied by its original black leather scabbard, which features matching gilt-metal mounts including a throat mount with a decorative frog stud.

Overall Length: 35 inches.


Condition report:

The blade shows significant oxidation, darkening, and surface pitting along its length, notably towards the midpoint and tip (photo 5). While the decorative etching remains visible, it is partially obscured by this corrosion. The gilt-metal hilt components exhibit a heavy dark patina and surface oxidation, particularly evident on the cross-guard (photo 2). The wire wrapping on the grip remains intact but has darkened significantly with age. The leather scabbard displays surface wear, scuffing, and creasing, particularly towards the lower end where the metal chape is missing (photo 1).