Rare Antique Victorian Custom Officer's “Rummage” Swordstick by MOLE of Birmingham c1850

Here on offer is a rare antique Victorian Custom Officer's “Rummage” swordstick prestigious blade maker 'Mole, Birmingham' (Robert Mole of Birmingham), c1850. This fine example recently “surfaced” in Cornwall from an elderly gent, who claimed it came from Customs Officer who operated in Padstow in the mid 1800's. Sadly I have no way of proving that, but with all the smuggling that went on in Cornwall during this period, there were a large number of Custom's officers in operation at the time. The Victorian Customs Officer's carried sword sticks not only for self-defence against smugglers but also to “rummage” and test bales and other consignments for hidden contraband and even stowaways. The swordstick looks like a normal practical wooden walking stick that were used during this period. It appears to have been made from strong briar wood, with a curved grip that is in excellent condition, with some age cracks and natural wood knots. It has a brass collar to the top of the scabbard that matches the same sized collar on the grip, both held in place by a single screw. They show signs of light dings and dents where this example has clearly been used over the years. It retains its original steel tipped, brass collared ferrule, that now has a split to one side of the brass collar and shows many dings to the finish. Now the xx” long, square tapering steel blade, is possibly the strongest “heavy duty” example I have come across on an antique swordstick. On one side it is stamped: “MOLE BIRMm”, near the grip. You can just make out the name MOLE. The blade is in great condition but does have some areas of light pitting and age staining to the finish and it still retains a sharp point. The long square sectioned steel blade is 29.5” (75cm) long and 0.4” (1cm) square at the grip. With the blade inserted, the swordstick measures 37” (94cm) long and weighs 675g. The blade fits snuggly into the scabbard and allowing it to still be used today as a walking stick, albeit this is a very rare item to find in this condition today and I have seen them being offered online for over £1,000! Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description. Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched. The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.