<p>No, I'm not buying my Youngster one! I do however, have my father's sword. He was commissioned by 1945. I'm still trying to track down the exact date. Anyway, the sword is a Wilkinson, made in London, with the serial number of 75616. Wilkinson no longer makes swords. Would anyone have an idea of where to start to look up information? I'd like to know how old it is.</p>
<p>Maybe find an antique dealer who deals with military items?</p>
<p>if you go to:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.armsresearch.co.uk%5B/url%5D">www.armsresearch.co.uk</a> </p>
<p>as I understand it, they have the Wilkinson ledgers and can help you find out about your sword for a fee, using the serial number. I think they are your "best bet".</p>
<p>Historical Swords are a very cool thing. Our family has my GG Grandfather's civil war sword, and I own a Japanese handmade sword (Imperial Marine) that was recovered by a Marine after the Battle of Sugar Loaf Hill on Okinawa in May 1945. Your sword is a very precious item.</p>
<p>Thank you. I stumbled across that too--it looks like the way to go. Thanks! Guess I'm lucky that it's a Wilkinson--it appears that they are the few sort that have a serial number...</p>
<p>Yes, thats true. A lot of edged weapons have a makers mark and little else. Some of the Civil War swords have dates as well. My Japanese sword is signed by the maker, but you have to remove the handle to see it. A serial number is good to have. In some cases, the scabbard will have a matching number to the sword.</p>
<p>I couldn't find a number on the scabbard. I'll be talking to my husband tonight to see if he's willing to let me pursue this. Probably all I'll find out is which store it came from!</p>