Presentation sword. Owned by Captain Sir Thomas Staines (1776-1830).

The hilt is gilt, the grip having in relief a representation of the Order of Ferdinand and Merit, the obverse on the obv and the reverse on the rev, between it and the pommel a trophy consisting of anchor, trident and caduceus and between it and the quillons a trophy of anchor, flags and guns, the trophies on the two sides of the grip being similar. The pommel in the form of a crowned and bearded head, the guard in the form of two stropped blocks with a rope rove through them, the blocks joined by a chain with a ball on each link and in the centre an oval on each side showing Hercules with a trident on the obverse and the lion skin on the reverse. The quillons in the form of fasces wreathed in acanthus leaves and a staff with a ram's head above. The langets bear naval trophies.

The blade is straight with a broad groove to the point blued & gilt. Engraved is foliage, an inscription reading 'FROM THE GENTLEMEN OF THE ISLE OF THANET, TO SIR. THOS STAINES KT. CAPT. IN THE R.N. KNIGHT OF THE ORDER OF ST. FERDINAND & MERIT, IN TESTIMONY OF THEIR HIGH ADMIRALTION OF THE HEROISM COURAGE HE HATH CONSTANTLY DISPLAYED IN HIS MAJESTY'S SERVICE, & PARTICULARLY BY HIS PERSEVERING EXERTIONS WHEN COMMANDING THE CYANE FRIGATE IN THE BAY OF NAPLES IN JUNE 1809'; foliage surrounding the Order of St.Ferdinand and Merit, the rams and crest of a lion carrying the union flag. Engraved on the reverse are Britannia standing, the Royal arms with supporters below and crown with crowned lion above, a shield with the white horse of Kent, and a fame with trumpet and wreath.

The wooden scabbard is covered in black leather and the whole incased in brass so that only three panels of leather appear. The supporting rings have been replaced by coiled dolphins. Both sides are the same and show anchor and foliage engraved, the stern of a ship, the name Cyane and decorations of naval trophies. For particulars of Sir Thomas Staines see WPN1153.