British, c.1905 – Sword Stick made from Copper and Timber from H.M.S. Britannia, Dartmouth (1869–1905), inscribed “Boydes – Bodkin Mk. III”

*British, c.1905 – Sword Stick made from Copper and Timber from H.M.S. Britannia, Dartmouth (1869–1905), inscribed “Boydes – Bodkin Mk. III”*

A fine and unusual commemorative sword stick fashioned from salvaged copper and timber taken from H.M.S. Britannia, the Royal Navy cadet training ship moored at Dartmouth between 1869 and 1905. The stick measures 88 cm overall and conceals a 27.7 cm square-section steel blade which withdraws smoothly from the shaft. The turned hardwood handle has a shallow domed knop and a polished finish, complemented by two engraved brass bands: the upper inscribed “Made from copper & timber taken from H.M.S. ‘Britannia’ Dartmouth. 1869–1905”, and the lower playfully marked “Boydes – Bodkin Mk. III”. The tip is reinforced with a brass and steel ferrule.

Approx. Dimensions: Overall length: 88 cm. Blade length: 27.7 cm

Historical Note:
H.M.S. Britannia served as the Royal Navy’s cadet training ship at Dartmouth for over thirty years, before being decommissioned in 1905 and succeeded by the purpose-built Royal Naval College that still occupies the site today. Following her deconstruction, souvenirs were fashioned from her fittings, including walking sticks, boxes, and plaques made from her copper sheathing and seasoned timbers. This example stands out for incorporating a concealed blade—suggesting it was not merely a keepsake, but also a gentleman’s discreet defence cane. The secondary engraving “Boydes – Bodkin Mk. III” likely references a naval officer or cadet and humorously mimics Admiralty ordnance designations, for weapons and stores — “Mk I”, “Mk II”, “Mk III” etc. “Bodkin” literally means a small pointed weapon or dagger — which fits the narrow, square-section blade perfectly - adding a personal and whimsical note typical of naval tradition.

*Condition*
Excellent overall condition for age. Wood sound and well-polished with expected minor marks and a small age shrinkage line. Brass mounts retain a pleasing aged patina with clear engraving throughout. Blade clean with even toning and no distortion. Mechanically sound, blade withdraws and reseats correctly. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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