Midshipman Proctor’s Sword for Valour at the Battle of Copenhagen
Period: Early 19th Century
Date of Manufacture: c.1800
Price: $173,443
REF: LA204466
Material: Gilt Steel
Description
This curved sword has a blued steel German blade with an ivory cross-hatched grip bearing silver and gilt mounts in the form of a lion’s head and mane. The grip is mounted with an oval silver plaque engraved with the coat of arms (1801–1816 pattern) of King George III, supporting a medal decorated with a fouled anchor. The reverse bears a similar plaque engraved with the monogram "JP", probably for Midshipman James Proctor, surmounted by a naval coronet and inscribed “Battle of Copenhagen” above the ship’s name “EDGAR”.
The blade is signed in gilt: “J.J. Runkel Solingen”. Includes belt and slings in a fitted mahogany box lined with green velvet. English, c. 1800.
Historical Context
James Proctor (died before 1814) served aboard HMS Edgar, which led Nelson’s division at the Battle of Copenhagen in 1801. Edgar sustained major damage and 142 casualties, including five wounded midshipmen — one of whom was Proctor. Given the loss of officers, he may have shown extraordinary leadership, earning this sword as a reward.
Proctor was later promoted and served aboard Spencer in Nelson’s Mediterranean fleet in 1805. The ship missed the Battle of Trafalgar but joined the Battle of San Domingo in 1806.
This sword was likely presented before the creation of Lloyd’s Patriotic Fund in 1803, marking it as an early and rare example of an unofficial officer commendation.
Maker: Johann Justus Runkel
Born in Germany, Runkel (1751–1808) became a key figure in Britain's sword trade. He imported Solingen blades and sold swords from his shop in Holborn. Despite legal issues over import valuations, he remained one of the era’s most prominent sword merchants.
Specifications
- Height: 37 in
- Condition: Excellent for age
- Category: Military Antique, Sword
Purchase
Item: Midshipman Proctor’s Sword for Valour at the Battle of Copenhagen
Price: $173,443
