1803 pattern. Brass hilt with stirrup form guard and reversed elongated tear shaped langets. Single ordnance mark to the cross guard. Wire wrapped black leather covered grip. 32 3/8” broad fullered curved s.e. blade, quite crisp with smooth glossy patina. Hilt excellent with rich gold overlay. The Imperial Guard comprised units from the several branches of service and used by Napoleon as special forces for the most difficult military assignments during the Napoleonic Wars, often held in reserve until circumstances demanded.
