A stunning mameluke sabre which once belonged to British prime minister Lord Grenville is expected to highlight Bonhams' sale of the Gary Bates Collection of Swords and Militaria on July 31.

Lord Grenville's sword has mysteriously had the inscription removed

Lord Grenville served as prime minister between 1806 and 1807, and was renowned as a great orator and statesman of the highest repute under King George III. The sword is believed to have been presented to William-Wyndham Grenville as a gift, though it is not clear why, as the blade's inscription has been deliberately removed.

However, the spectacular sabre still bears his crest on the crossguard as the first and last Lord Grenville of Wooton-under-Burnwood in Buckinghamshire, UK, enabling it to be easily identified by historians. The 84 cm pipe-backed blade was created by Salter & Co and is sparsely etched with foliage and scrolls, offset by a superb agate grip. It is expected to bring between £2,500 and £3,500.

The top lot of the auction is expected to be a fine presentation sabre which was presented to William Bird Brodie, as lieutenant colonel of the Salisbury Volunteer Infantry in 1831. The sword was presented to Brodie by his non commissioned officers and privates as a token of their attachment, respect and esteem. Featuring a magnificent gilt grip and hilt with a beautifully etched blade, it will auction with a valuation of £12,000-15,000.

The swords are offered as part of the Gary Bates sales, which is considered one of the best sword collections to be brought to auction in recent years.
 
See Paul Fraser Collectibles' brilliant collection of Militaria here, or for more news articles on Militaria collecting, click here.