Offered is an 1845 British Infantry officer’s sword and scabbard by Wilkinson, as worn by Lieutenant Colonel Frederick Barlin, who served with the 1st Royal Surrey Militia, having purchased this sword for use in 1864

The sword features a gilt finished (Queen Victoria) Royal cyphered gothic guard with shagreen and wire twist grips. Slightly curved 82.5cm frost etched blade features crowned VR cypher and ELB initialled panel all surrounded by floral scroll work. Henry Wilkinson star proof slug and address to the ricasso with register number 13481 stamped to spine. Bright finish to the blade with some age darkened spots. Scabbard complete with gold mounts and rings including matching manufacturers detailed locket, leather with normal scuffs. Sword 97cm, in scabbard it measures 98.5cm. The Wilkinson Registry shows this as having been purchased by F.S. Barlan, esquire on 02/11/1864.

Lieutenant Colonel Frederick Samuel Barlin was born on 2/11/1840 in London. He was involved in the tobacco industry being a Freeman of the City of London. He initially obtained a commission in the Army 4/11/1864 being posted to the 30th Regiment but shortly after resigned. He enlisted into the 3rd East Surrey (1st Royal Surrey Militia) as a Lieutenant in March 1866. Promoted to Captain November 1867 and Major in May 1887. He retired in June 1887 with the rank of Honorary Lieutenant Colonel. He died on 21/6/1909 in his home in France.