Naval Officers' Swords
Until the early years of the 19th century, naval officers did not have a uniform pattern of sword. In 1827 a new sword was introduced with the solid half-basket hilt which has remained in use since.

The guard is ornamented with a crown and anchor badge. The blade has a round back, usually known as a "pipe back".

Presentation Swords
It has been a custom to present swords to officers who have distinguished themselves.

The best known of these are from the Napoleonic period and emanated from the Patriotic Fund at Lloyds between 1803 and 1810.

Of the Trafalgar swords, twenty-nine were presented, twenty-five to Captains and four to Lieutenants who commanded ships.