A historically significant sword from one of Lord Nelson's famous battles is going up for sale in Dorchester.

The unique presentation sword, given to a hero after the Battle of Copenhagen in 1801, has emerged for sale with an estimated value between £60,000 - £80,000.

The decorated weapon was given to James Proctor, whose efforts on board the lead ship Edgar impressed his senior officer. It has a curved blade of German steel with an ivory handle of a lion’s head. It is engraved with the initials ‘JP’ and ‘Battle of Copenhagen’.

This naval battle is largely remembered for Lord Nelson’s reputed act of insubordination where, instead of retreating, he held a telescope to his blind eye and claimed that he could 'see no ships'. This led to the coinage of the phrase “to turn a blind eye”.

The sword, which is 37 inches long (94cm), is going under the hammer at Duke’s of Dorchester in its 200th anniversary sale on Friday, December 8.

Dorset Echo:

 

It is considered an exceptionally rare artefact as no gold medals were produced to mark the victory at Copenhagen, unlike other great naval victories.

Guy Schwinge, art expert and consultant, said: “This sword is a remarkable survivor and comes with its scabbard, box and strap. Its recipient, James Proctor, after recovering from his injury, was made a lieutenant, and continued to serve for some years.

“The battle in 1801 – just four years before Trafalgar – was prior to the establishment of the Lloyd’s Patriotic Fund that would organise official presentations. So, this sword was made for an unofficial presentation by an officer to one of his crew who performed with great courage and valour. And this makes it extremely collectible.”

It was likely commissioned by James Proctor’s commanding officer, Cpt James Murray, to mark the midshipman’s heroism. He was injured himself alongside 141 others during the action that ultimately saw a British victory.

Mr Schwinge added: “The Napoleonic wars are like Britain’s own Trojan wars and there is a great deal of romance about them – generation after generation becomes fascinated by them and the people who fought in them.

“To own a sword like this would be the crowning of most collections.”

More information about the sword and the auction can be found on the Duke's website.