British, Victorian, Royal Navy Boarding Cutlass – Pattern 1845 – VR & Enfield Marked

*British, Victorian, Royal Navy Boarding Cutlass – Pattern 1845 – VR & Enfield Marked*

An original British Victorian Royal Navy boarding cutlass of the classic Pattern 1845 type, retaining its broad spear-point blade, ribbed iron grip, and pressed sheet-iron bowl guard, together with visible Enfield inspection and Victorian acceptance markings. Untouched and heavily atmospheric, this is a genuine mid-to-late 19th century naval fighting weapon with strong display presence and clear Royal Navy association.

The cutlass features a single-edged spear-point blade measuring approximately 73 cm in length, with an overall length of approximately 87 cm. The final 21 cm of the blade transitions into a reinforced spear point with a slight medial ridge, intended to provide additional rigidity for thrusting during close-quarters naval combat and boarding actions. The broad blade retains its original profile and heavy service character throughout.

The hilt is fitted with the characteristic blackened sheet-iron bowl guard and rolled rear quillon associated with Victorian Royal Navy cutlasses. The ribbed iron grip remains intact and firmly mounted. The ricasso carries a clear Crown over E over 6 inspection mark, identifying inspection at Enfield, with the number representing the individual government viewer or inspector. Additional faint markings on the spine include a Crown over VR royal cypher struck alongside the remnants of the ENFIELD factory mark, confirming Victorian government acceptance and Enfield manufacture.

Approx. Measurements – Blade length: 73 cm. Overall length: 87 cm.

History Note:
The Pattern 1845 naval cutlass became one of the defining edged weapons of the Victorian Royal Navy and saw widespread service aboard British warships during the height of the British Empire. Designed for brutal close-range combat during boarding actions, landing parties, and shipboard defence, the heavy cutlass combined chopping power with a reinforced thrusting point suited to confined fighting aboard naval vessels.

*Condition*
Untouched attic-found condition overall with heavy age-related surface oxidation and dark patina throughout. The blade retains its original shape and edge profile but displays areas of pitting, age wear, and several old impact nicks to one edge consistent with historic use or storage damage. The hilt remains solid with good overall structural integrity. Markings are partially worn but still visible under close inspection. No scabbard present. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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