WW1 1917 British Pattern P1907 Sword Bayonet & Leather Scabbard MOLE RAF MARKED

Description

This WW1 1917 British Pattern P1907 Sword Bayonet & Leather Scabbard is in very good condition and only shows modest signs of age and service. The ricasso is clearly marked by MOLE with production taking place in November 1917. The blade is in very good, clean condition with only a few minor "dings" on the edge from handling and storage. The grips are clean and show only modest, expected signs of service. Of note, there are significant traces of green paint that can be found on the tang, pommel, crossguard, grip screws and ricasso. While it's well known that the Australians painted their equipment this color during WW2, the British Home Guard did the same and it most likely falls under this category. Of particular interest, the pommel is clearly stamped "RAF" which indicates issue by the Royal Air Force. As the green paint is over this stamp I am willing to speculate that the stamp was done sometime during WW1 or prior to WW2 but I cannot say for certain. The pommel is marked and the bayonet lug catch button moves freely. The leather scabbard appears to have been with this blade for quite some time and faint  traces of green paint can be detected on the throat and ferrule. The backside of the scabbard is clearly marked "WSC" denoting production by Wilkinson Sword Company. "Broad Arrow" stamps can be found on the throat and ferrule. The three-rivet throat places production during WW2 and would be a logical pairing with a "refurbished" blade like this example. The stitching on the back spine is strong and no signs of serious damage can be detected. Please examine the photographs carefully for the best description of condition.