an2980aBritish military issue Land Transport Corps ‘Gladius’ pattern side arm.

£275

 

British military issue Land Transport Corps ‘Gladius’ pattern side arm. Heavy single edged spear point blade struck with crowned ordnance inspection stamp to the left side and Solingen helmet manufactures mark to the right. Brass ribbed hilt with guard of the Roman Gladius pattern as used on French and Russian arms of the period, but unique to the LTC weapon in British service. A very handy and usable short sword these were issued to members of the Land transport Corps serving in the Crimea where they would have been useful around camp for wood cutting etc. as well as their intended use to defend the user’s wagons while delivering stores to the front line troops. A rare side arm in very good condition.