BRITISH VICTORIAN PERIOD POLICE OR CONSTABULARY SHORT SWORD
Constabulary short swords were standard issue in the 19th Century for members of the British police, prison wardens and sometimes Customs Agents.
These short swords which were popularly known as hangers or cutlasses were of a standard police pattern and incorporated a safety catch to prevent loss or unauthorised release from the scabbard during a melee.
A cutlass maybe supplied to any constable who is so situated that in the opinion of two Justices, it is necessary for his own personal protection in the performance of his duty. The cutlass is to be worn at night only, or when rioting or serious public disturbance has taken place or is anticipated, or upon any sudden emergency when orders have been given by the Chief Constable. The first Police Force to use them was the Thames River Police.
Item Description
This example is in very good condition and comes with a frog which I dont think is original to this sword as it is dated 1922 . There was never a makers mark encountered on these weapons. The fish skin wrapped handle is in good condition but has lost its original wire wrap, other examples that I have researched have also lost their wire wrap. Brass fittings and the scabbard are also in good condition.
A very nice item