This Peninsular/Waterloo period sword is of a rare rapier style made by the leading, and most respected swordsmiths, Salter, Cutler to HRH Duke of Sussex, and with an unusual medieval style blade by Runkel Solingen.

The hilt has a dome pommel with fine gilt wire bound grip, and hand guard. The straight steel blade has an almost medieval quality about it, with a central blood channel both sides, and with the blade manufacturer's name, 'J.J.RUNKEL SOLINGEN' engraved along the blood channnel both sides, and with a four dot decoration each end. 

The straight leather scabbard is in  dark brown / black leather without decoration and with stylised gilted brass top, centre, and bottom mounts. The mounts beautifully cut with ornate patterns. The top mount bearing a fully engraved manufacturer’s cartouche, 'Salter Sword Cutler to HRH, the Duke of Sussex, 35 Strand, London'.  

Condition report: The hilt in perfect condition with just mercuric gilt plate loss to the pommel and hand guard area. Grip in perfect condition.The wire wrapping remaining fine and tight. The blade (which still retains its original brown leather washer) survives in very good to excellent condition. The original polished steel blade remains bright, with just the slightest signs of pitting here and there. Above average condition for a blade which is over 200 years old. The leather scabbard remaining fairly supple and complete, but typically needs to be handled with care once the sword has been removed. The scabbard mounts have lost most of their original mercuric gilt plating. Both rings in place. Bottom mount showing typical age and use with light restoration to the base.

Note: John Salter was working as a swordsmith at 35 Strand between 1780 and 1824. The successor to Joseph & Edward Greensill, Salter achieved great fame in his time as a swordsmith, becoming the sword cutler to HRH Duke of Sussex. He also had the honour to make the swords for Lord Admiral Horatio Nelson, and also Lord Exmouth. Additionally Salter was asked to make swords for the Patriotic Fund.

Additional notes: This particular sword is most unusual in the form of Runkel blade used, and rarely seen in the market place.