British p1803 saber. [London, England]: J[ohann] J[ustus] Runkel, c. 1805. Blade produced Solingen, [Germany]: N.p., n.d. 

A thoroughly attractive sword in very fine condition. In spite of its age, the bluing remains vibrant and uniform. The blade is engraved and gold-washed to each side and to the spine. Alongside floral motifs and stands of arms, engraved to the obverse is the Royal Cipher of King George III (1738-1820) beneath a crown, and, to the reverse, the coat of arms of the United Kingdom. The spine is engraved "J. J. Runkel Solingen". Per the pattern, the knucklebow is also adorned with the Royal Cipher and the pommel takes the form of an expressive lion.

Complete in leather scabbard that has one complete fracture (easily restored). The blade, guard, ferrule, and backstrap are overall clean with minimal patination. There is minor chipping to the grip along the backstrap and a small section of loss near the pommel. Traces of the original leather washer are present. 

Johann Justus Runkel (1741-1828) operated as an importer of swords and blades in London from c. 1780 until 1808. Though the P1803 saw continued production and use throughout the Napoleonic Wars and during the War of 1812, this example can be firmly dated between the pattern's inception in 1803 and Runkel's retirement.

Note: This lot cannot be packaged and shipped in-house. Successful bidders winning items marked as being packaged and shipped by a third-party service are responsible for paying the third party directly. We are happy to offer complimentary drop-off service to local third-party packing/shipping companies in Columbus, Ohio.

[Swords, Knives, Bowie Knives, Knife, Blades] [Britain, British History, United Kingdom, England, English History]