British, 1885 Pattern Yeomanry Cavalry Trooper’s Sword & Scabbard by Mole — 1889 dated, Birmingham inspected, Mole Patent scabbard

*British, 1885 Pattern Yeomanry Cavalry Trooper’s Sword & Scabbard by Mole — 1889 dated, Birmingham inspected, Mole Patent scabbard*

An excellent example of the classic British 1885 Pattern Cavalry Trooper’s sword, featuring a distinctive Maltese Cross hilt complete with its correct steel scabbard. This sword illustrates the transitional development of late 19th-century British cavalry arms and is notable for its comprehensive set of official markings including the YC  for Yeomanry Cavalry and the Mole Patent on the scabbard.

Curved, single (3/4 length) fullered flat back blade, that is double edged for the last 10 inches. The ambidextrous basket hilt with a pierced Maltese Cross symbol with turned-over edges, while the chequered 2-piece black leather grips are firmly secured by five steel rivets. Comes complete with a wood-lined steel scabbard with two fixed mounting rings near the throat. Measuring approximately 87 cm long, 3.4 cm wide, and 101 cm overall. Representative of cavalry swords from the mid to late Victorian era, the 1885 pattern sword epitomizes a time when swords remained a significant choice of weaponry for mounted soldiers. It served as a practical and efficient weapon for cavalrymen during this period of history.

The scabbard is clearly marked "MOLE PATENT" and dated "90," confirming it as the patented design of Robert Mole & Sons of Birmingham. Mole were full sword makers — forging, finishing, and producing scabbards in-house — and supplied directly to the War Office and Yeomanry regiments in the late Victorian period.

Markings:
Obverse ricasso (main side facing outward in scabbard):
Broad arrow over "WD" (War Department ownership mark)
Crown over "E" with inspection number "12" (Enfield inspection)
"Y.C." (likely Yeomanry Cavalry unit marking)
"M" (probable Mole maker mark)
"X" (proof bend test mark)

Reverse ricasso (inner side):
Crown over "BR" with inspection number "88" (Birmingham inspection mark)
"/95" (likely reinspection or refurbishment date, 1895)
"/89" (original manufacture or batch date, 1889)

Spine of the blade:
Stamped "N" (internal inspection or batch mark; not naval service)

Tang (under the grips):
Crown over "BR" with inspection number "88" (further Birmingham inspection confirmation)

Scabbard locket:
"MOLE PATENT"
"90" (manufacture or acceptance date, 1890)

The steel scabbard is of correct pattern with two suspension rings and metal shoe chape. It shows uniform age-related pitting and oxidation consistent with prolonged service use.

Historical note
The 1885 Pattern Cavalry Trooper’s sword marked a shift toward a more thrust-oriented cavalry weapon while still retaining a cut-capable blade. It replaced earlier cut-heavy designs and remained in service until replaced by the 1890 and 1899 patterns. This example, dated 1889 and refurbished in 1895, likely saw use with Yeomanry cavalry units. The Mole Patent scabbard, dated 1890, represents an improvement in durability and design for mounted service.

Robert Mole & Sons of Birmingham were one of the few true sword makers (not just retailers) in 19th-century Britain. Active from the early 1800s, they forged, ground, and finished their own blades entirely in-house, supplying the War Office, Yeomanry regiments, and colonial forces. Known for robust service swords rather than decorative pieces, Mole introduced patented scabbard designs (as marked on this example) and built a reputation for quality and durability. The firm remained a significant supplier until being absorbed by Wilkinson Sword in the early 20th century.

The Yeomanry Cavalry were volunteer mounted regiments formed in Britain in the late 18th century to defend against invasion and maintain internal order. By the Victorian era, they became an important part of Britain's reserve forces, often equipped with service swords like this example. These part-time regiments combined ceremonial and operational roles, and many saw active service during the Boer War and later conflicts. Swords marked "Y.C." are understood to have been issued to Yeomanry Cavalry units, adding historical and collector interest.

*Condition*
Very good blade exhibits age-related patina and scattered dark spots, but remains structurally solid. Guard and grip are secure, with composite grips intact. The scabbard is solid but heavily pitted with some denting, fit is loose. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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