A “D” guard style hilt of the regulation 1786 pattern. At this time, as per the regulation, only the blade dimensions had been settled on for the requirements of this first official infantry regulation sword. The blade was to be straight and at least one inch broad at the shoulder and 32 inches in length. The dimensions of this single fullered sword sit comfortably within the parameters. At one time it had lovely engravings on both sides. Sadly, it has suffered a hard life and corrosion has claimed many of the engravings with only traces showing through. Those that can be seen are a crown, horn of plenty and various floral decorations. There are no makers/retailers names visible.

This example came out of an old Halifax, Nova Scotia collection. The brass hilt is firm with only a minor repair to the bottom of the “D” guard. The reeded white ivory grips is solid without any chips; only minor cracks and yellowing to a light cream colour. The side guard on this example contains a diamond. Other known examples have included an anchor or flaming grenade – depending on the branch of service. I am unaware at this time as to whether the diamond shape in this example is indicative of something or merely a design element.

Overall, a fair example of a 1786 pattern with blade corrosion being its main failing. A sword which has lived through an exciting life from the War of 1812 through to the Halifax explosion (which may have contributed the blade deterioration if it was subjected to water or other less than ideal conditions).