British, Elizabeth II Period, Royal Navy Officer’s 1827 Pattern Dress Sword by Gieves, Named to R. H. Nicholas, with Sword Knot, Scabbard, Belt, Hangers and Original Bag

*British, Elizabeth II Period, Royal Navy Officer’s 1827 Pattern Dress Sword by Gieves, Named to R. H. Nicholas, with Sword Knot, Scabbard, Belt, Hangers and Original Bag*

A very attractive Elizabeth II period Royal Navy officer’s 1827 Pattern dress sword, retaining its gilt brass hilt, etched blade, black leather scabbard with gilt mounts, sword knot, original sword belt with hangers, and its original storage bag. The blade is clearly marked GIEVES on the ricasso and is richly etched with the crowned E II R cypher beneath a crown, together with Royal Arms, fouled anchor devices and foliate decoration, confirming manufacture during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. Of particular interest is the presentation-style blade inscription reading “R. H. Nicholas – Royal Navy”, giving the sword a direct named naval association. The sword retains the classic Royal Navy officer’s gilt brass hilt with fouled anchor device within the guard, folding guard section, white fish-skin grip bound with twisted wire, and lion’s head pommel complete with naval sword knot.

The black leather scabbard retains its original gilt brass mounts, including the decorated throat and middle band with suspension rings. The inside of the throat is stamped “A2”, visible in the photographs.

The sword is accompanied by its original black leather officer’s sword belt with double hangers, the belt stamped Gieves Ltd in gilt to the interior and fitted with a gilt fouled anchor buckle marked Firmin London, a well-known military outfitter and supplier of high-quality naval accoutrements.

Also included is the original black protective storage bag, completing what is a very appealing and largely complete officer’s sword ensemble.

Approx. Measurements – Blade length: 79.5 cm. Overall length: 94 cm. Belt length: 91 cm.

Historical Note:
The Royal Navy officer’s sword pattern adopted in 1827 remains the standard form of naval dress sword to the present day, with only the royal cypher altered to reflect the reigning monarch. During the reign of Queen Elizabeth II (1952–2022) these swords continued to be worn by naval officers for ceremonial duties, formal occasions and full dress uniform.

Military outfitters such as Gieves, long associated with naval tailoring and officer equipment, supplied swords and uniform accoutrements to generations of Royal Navy officers. Complete sets retaining the sword, scabbard, belt, hangers and protective bag are increasingly sought after, as they preserve the officer’s original dress ensemble rather than the sword alone.

The personal blade inscription to R. H. Nicholas, Royal Navy adds further interest and offers potential for future research into the officer who carried this sword.

*Condition*
A very well-presented example in very good clean condition overall. The blade remains bright with its etched decoration clear and well defined, including the EIIR cypher, Royal Arms and anchor motifs. There is some light staining and minor spotting visible in places consistent with age. The gilt brass hilt and fittings remain particularly attractive with good bright finish. The fish-skin grip and wire binding are intact. The scabbard leather remains solid with some light creasing and surface wear, and retains its gilt mounts and suspension rings. The interior of the throat is stamped A2. The sword knot is in good condition. The original belt and hangers remain present and functional, showing expected wear and age to the leather. The buckle is marked Firmin London, and the belt interior retains the Gieves Ltd marking. The original storage bag is also included. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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