EL6980 - A scarce Worcester Yeomanry prize sword for Sword Exercise. Judging by the etching, form and proof disc, this is almost certainly the work of Reeves in Birmingham. The sword itself is of high quality, with an excellent blade in original mirror polish and frost etching, with unique motifs and emblems, which presumably allude to the regiment. The provenance of this sword was missed at first, but is engraved on the top side of the scabbard and now very difficult to read, but by using various lights and shadow effects, I have managed to decipher: "QOWYC - Given by the officers of the Upton Squadron - ?????? - Sword Exercise - ???1869? - Won by - ?????? Ross?". Aside from being a top quality sword, by one of the best makers of the day, this gives a tantalizing start for further research. The blade is excellent, the hilt very good, with patina to the guard and back piece, and excellent shagreen and grip wire. Everything is firm and tight, with no movement. As is usual with Reeves, the sword feels great in the hand and although not service sharpened as such, it has a very thin edge.
