ELC1065 - An Edwardian (1904 dated) 1897 pattern presentation sword with inscription, made by Gaunt using the late Edward Thurkle's trademark. The inscription reads, "Presented to Lieut. & Qr. Mstr. [Quarter Master] W. H. Sweet, by members of sergeants' mess depot Duke of Cornwall's Lt Infty [Light Infantry] on his promotion. March 1904". The sword comes with some research papers and William Henry Sweet, who was promoted to officer from the ranks in 1904 (quite rare at this time), received the Long Service / Good Conduct medal, the India 1895 Medal, with clasps for Tirah (1897/98) and the Punjab Frontier (1897/98). He had served in various parts of India throughout the 1890s, he was in Ceylon (Sri Lanka) from 1900-1902 and in South Africa from 1904-1906. The sword's blade is in good condition, with only isolated stains and a few little spots of pitting. The guard is rather pitted and there is slight movement in the hilt on the tang. The grip shagreen and wire are good and the sword is complete with its steel dress scabbard.
