A fine 19th Century British Naval presentation sword

A fine 19th Century British Naval presentation sword, 'PRESENTED BY THE SEAMEN OF HIS MAJESTY'S SHIP EURYALUS TO LIEUNT CHARLES PEAKE; AS A TOKEN OF THEIR ESTEEM AND GRATITUDE: XXVIIITH AUGST MDCCCXXI', curved hatchet point blade 32 in., etched along its entire length with naval and martial motifs, a crowned garter, Neptune, the allegorical figure of Hope, and the dedication, all amid foliate scrolls; gilt copper stirrup hilt with lion head pommel, triangular langets with swagged and tied edges and displaying the stern of a ship in relief, border engraved cross piece with scrolling acanthus terminal, ornate knuckle bow in the form of winged Victory, wire bound horn grip; part scabbard of black leather with heavy gilt copper mounts: the locket and band well engraved with scrolls and arms against a seeded ground, each set with an oval medallion depicting Hope (locket) and Hercules fighting the Nemean Lion (band), and each with a suspension bracket in the form of a writhing dolphin (retaining the swivel clips from the belt, lower part of scabbard missing).

The presentation of this sword in 1821 (together with a silver vase) is recorded by O'Byrne, who notes that Peake "commanded the Euryalus for a short period". He had previously taken part in a number of actions including cutting out operations and the taking of prizes.

Reference: William O'Byrne, 'Naval Biographical Dictionary Vol 2'