QUEEN ELIZABETH II SILVER JUBILEE COMMEMORATIVE SWORD BY WILKINSON

QUEEN ELIZABETH II SILVER JUBILEE COMMEMORATIVE SWORD BY WILKINSON

An exceptionally fine commemorative item, a finely-crafted ceremonial sword, 30 in. blade, 36.5 in. overall, produced by the Wilkinson company in a limited run of one hundred pieces to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, marking the 25th anniversary of her reign. The hilt is constructed from gold and Sterling silver and shows extensive English proof marks. The guard has a cut-through leaf pattern, displaying a golden shamrock, leek, thistle, and rose, respectively symbolizing Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and England. The ricasso and pommel feature a red velvet-backed leaf design, along with a second gold English Rose. The grip shows alternating bands of gold and silver in a spiral twist pattern, with the Royal Coat of Arms in enameled gold on the right face. Of particular note is the knuckle guard, which is decorated on one side with a cut-through of English Rose pattern engraving, and on the right with a gold panel that serves as the mounting for no less than twenty-five diamonds, of approximately 2 carats weight. The hilt shows black tarnish overall, with some areas polished Colichemarde-style blade is forged from brightly-polished steel, the ricasso engraved "H.M. Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee 1977", while the reverse ricasso bears the limitation numeral "22" and the Wilkinson maker's mark, with the royal warrant ""By Appointment to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II". The blade shows very light red rust freckling overall, but with no apparent underlying pitting. The sword is presented with its purple velvet-lined mahogany presentation case, along with a red cloth sword pouch, a red velvet cushion for the hilt, a pair of white gloves for handling and the keys to the case. All original paperwork is present, including Wilkinson hanging tag, Certificate of Authenticity, bill of sale and correspondence between the original purchaser and the U.S. Historical Society, Wilkinson's U.S. representatives.