I have several Irish swords in my collection, the best RIC example is by CT Henecy of Dublin. I also have a decent example by J Ireland, whilst the one by Jones & Son has had a bad repair to the grip but is otherwise ok. My latest acquisition was in Belfast (2020) and the price reflected the condition I suppose, as it had been badly rechromed and consequently the fine detailed engraving has been largely obliterated – a real shame!  Barely legible under bright light is the maker or retailers mark of Brown, London & Dublin.  Possibly Lambert Brown?

To round off I have an Irish Court sword that would have been worn on formal occasions at Dublin Castle and lastly an Irish Revenue Police Sword.  This latter example is missing the Shamrock that would have filled the void in the guard and has a lot of pitting.  Likewise the engraving is worn so that while ‘Police’ is visible under the Shamrocks, the word ‘Revenue’ above the Crown on the blade can’t be made out by the naked eye.  That said, given the RP were disbanded in 1857, I doubt I’ll look so good at ≥163 years old!

My swords in their display case:

CT Henecy example:

J Ireland example:

Jones & Son example:

‘Lambert’ & Brown example:

Irish Court Sword:

Irish Revenue Police Sword:

The RP sword was bought at auction in Dublin and noted as a ‘Victorian 1845-pattern sword, the curved, pipe-back blade on gothic bronze hilt with oval badge, ‘Revenue Police’ on a band with crown, the blade etched with sprays of shamrock and a crowned sprig of shamrock with ‘Revenue’ and ‘Police’ above and below. Scarce. Size:38in. (96.52cm) Provenance: Auction of the Estate of Thomas Roe, Dundalk where purchased by Joe Donovan, antique dealer, from whom purchased by the current owner.