NAM.1963-10-169-1

Presentation sword, 1880; presented to FM Lord Roberts by the Chamber of the Guildhall of the City of London in recognition of his services during the 2nd Afghan War, 1878-1880. Scimitar shape with latched back similar to General officer’s pattern 1834 sword; deeply etched decoration. Inside: scrollwork; angelic figure holding aloft a laurel wreath and horn; winged thunderbolt; scroll bearing motto ‘UBIQUE’; cannon; scroll bearing motto ‘QUO FAS E GLORIA DUCUNT’; winged thunderbolt; scrollwork; arms of City of London; royal arms and supporters. Outside: scrollwork; scroll bearing ‘SEMPER PARATUS’ imposed on trophy of arms; presentation inscription; arms of Maj Gen F S Roberts surrounded by motto ‘TRIA JUNCTA IN UNO’ with scroll ‘VIRTUTE ET VALORE’. Crossguard of gilt metal: inside bearing a representation of the Roberts arms with two supporters, a highlander and a gurkha, with pendant medals and motto; outside bearing arms of City of London in enamel with dragon supporters. Grip: ivory lion’s neck and head with entwined leaves and held by acorn shaped brass rivet heads. On the back of the neck the cypher ‘FSR’. With scabbard and sword knot.

2nd Afghan War (1878-1880)