EL7041 - The 1857 pattern Royal Engineers officer's sword of Colonel Henry Dacres Olivier (1850-1935), by Wilkinson and numbered 18289 (for 1872). Colonel Olivier is notable on several counts, having an interesting Army career, including service in the Second Anglo-Afghan War of 1878-80, almost constant service in India, working on the railways, and also in the Sudan between 1885-89, but also in his youth between 1872 and 1874 as a noted footballer, who played in the 1874 FA Cup final! To add to this, he was also the great-uncle of acting legend Sir Laurence Olivier! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Olivier The sword features a standard 32.5 inch 1845 pattern blade with, regulation 1857 pattern Royal Engineers hilt, all in very good condition. There are a few small areas of staining to the blade (see photos) but it is generally otherwise all in bright polish. Olivier's initials and crest are also clearly etched on the blade, and the decorative etching is deep and in good condition. The blade has been service sharpened, for service in Afghanistan. The blade is firm in the hilt, and there is Wilkinson's optional steel washer under the leather washer. The grip and wire are in good condition, as is the brass scroll hilt. Complete in nickel-plated steel scabbard. A gorgeous example of this desirable sword pattern, with a fantastic provenance that ticks both the military and football boxes!
