An 1871/1873 Italian Officer - SOLD

An Italian officer's sword of 1871/1873 pattern, probably dating from WWII. The etched decoration on the straight pipe-back blade is still relatively crisp, though there is some minor pitting and corrosion towards the tip.
 
There are three slots cut into the bowl of the large steel guard, creating in effect three flat "bars". There are one or two spots of corrosion on the bowl, including a large spot at the outside edge. As is typical for Italian swords of the period, the guard has the characteristic thumb notch at the back of the blade.
 
The hilt is made of ebony with a chromed back-strap. There is a very narrow crack in the top of the wood at the very edge where it joins the back strap, but this is strictly cosmetic. There is some movement in the hilt assembly, but it should be possible to remedy this fairly easily by tightening the pommel nut.
 
The chromed steel scabbard is in good condition and holds the sword securely, although the chrome has suffered some scuffing and corrosion over the years, especially at the drag. 
 
Blade length: 82.5 cm
Overall length: 98 cm
Length in scabbard: 100.5 cm
Early 20th century