A Victorian heavy cavalry officer's undress sword of the 1st Kings Dragoon Guards

A Victorian heavy cavalry officer's undress sword of the 1st Kings Dragoon Guards, fullered blade etched with regimental title and battle honours to 1860, also etched with owner's name 'W HARKNESS', retailed by W. Jones & Co. 236 Regent Street London, pierced steel guard of 'honeysuckle' pattern, lacks scabbard. Blade 90cm (35 1/4 inches).

A Sub Lieutenant W H Harkness appears on the South Africa 1877-79 Medal Roll for the regiment as entitled to the medal with clasp for 1879. The London Gazette June 13th 1882 includes the entry 'Lieutenant William Henry Harkness to be Captain, vice H. C. Vetch." Dated 6th May, 1882.'. According to Robson, 'Swords of the British Army', this pattern of hilt was in use for heavy cavalry throughout the mid to late 19th Century, and the battle honour 'South Africa 1879' is omitted from the blade, inviting speculation that the sword might have seen service in the Zulu War, possibly even in the final charge at Ulundi.