EL7132 - An extremely unusual, possibly unique, mid-Victorian Highland Rifle Militia officer's sword, by Pillin (circa 1862-1880). I have been unable to find any record of another sword like this. Featuring a double-edged 'claymore' style blade, of 34.5 inches long, with very detailed etching, including the regimental designation, thistles and VR crown. The blade has medium patina and some areas of pitting, but most of the etching is crisp and of very high quality, and the blade is firm in the hilt. The hilt features a steel guard based on the 1821 heavy cavalry officer's hilt, as was used by Field Officers in some Highland regiments. The grip shagreen and silver wire are in good condition. One of the strangest features of this sword is the Highland pommel tassel - this is obviously inspired by the tassels attached to the hilt liners of Highland basket-hilted broadswords, but here the pommel consists of two separate parts and they sandwich the red silk tassel. I have never seen anything like this before. Housed in the original steel scabbard.
