Lot 521: British Pattern 1796 Officer’s Dress Sword, Thomas Read & Co., Dublin

A custom 1796 Infantry officer’s dress sword, sold at Read & Co., Dublin, Ireland. Custom made “hybrid” sword, with regulation British Pattern 1796 hilt and pommel, but with an earlier style double-edged, symmetrical blade, etched with “For My Country et King” motto and a personal family crest of three diagonal bands; Gilt brass hilt, not hinged, with knuckle bow connecting to an urn-shaped pommel; silver wire wrapped grip. Scabbard marked “READ No 4 Parliament St”. Retailed in Dublin, Ireland, by Read & Co. at No. 4 Parliament St. circa 1800–1815. Overall: 38 in. L, Blade: 32 1/4 in. L x 15/16 in. (at ricasso). 

CONDITION: Blade is toned to gray with areas of pitting. Hilt gilding with some thinning, grip wire intact but loose; Scabbard brass chape (the protective tip) missing.