This Napoleonic period British 1805 Pattern naval officer's sword dates to the early 1800s, and judging by its ivory grip and lion's head pommel, was prescribed for senior officers, i.e. the ranks of commander, captain, and admiral. Midshipmen and lieutenants wore a plainer version, with a fish-skin grip and bird's head pommel.
There is still a fair amount of gilding on the hilt, jawless lion's head pommel and the uncrowned anchors on the langets may indicate an earlier date of manufacture.
Gilded brass hilt bears signs of age, with period brazing at the junction of counter guard and bow. Ivory grip has some age fractures, and has patinated nicely. There is mild play to the hilt. Blade is a spadroon, 29"/73 cm, undecorated, with signs of prior cleanings. There is no active rust or serious pitting on the blade.
A commander or a captain would have worn a plainer sword, like this one, for his daily duties on ship's quarterdeck, and had another, more ornate one of the same pattern stowed away for dress occasions.

Price: $850.00