Great War Royal Artillery Officer's Sword with "Initials"

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Originally Posted by stephen wood

...I noticed two tiny marks on this sword - on the other side of the number. They look quite like initials - would they have been put on at Wilkinson's or by the owner? They look like ER of EB.

It was completed on 14th April 1915 for 2nd Lieutenant J B Carson MC, West Riding Battery, RHA. The battery spent 1916-1918 in the Middle East - where cavalry and horse artillery were yet playing an important role. Perhaps this would account for the service sharpening...

Many thanks.

Salaams stephen wood ~ 'Tis A Wilkinson indeed!
Regards,
Ibrahiim al Balooshi.

[asomotif]

Very nice an complete sword Stephen !

The ER or EB is very roughly done. looks like owner did it.

I was suprised to see this type in commbination with RHA.
I always think of the 1908 and 1912 Cavalry swords as soon as horses appear

But this battery was serving under the Royal Field Artillery, thus the artillery pattern sword.

1916-1918: West Riding Battery served in the Middle East as part of the 263rd Brigade RFA.

Can you share a close up of the field sharpening ?

Best regards,
Willem

[Richard G]

I suspect the stamped ER or EB is a Wilkinson inspector's mark.
Google "John Wilkinson Latham" and you will find he is still active in several forums and may be willing to help.
Regards
Richard

[stephen wood]

...many thanks for your interest.

as far as I know, Artillery Officers carried and continue to carry the variation on 1821 light Cavalry Swords. Other Ranks in the King's Troop carry the 1908.

At the Colonel's Review in June.