Straight-bladed dirk which belonged to Commander Thomas Wells (died 1825). The hilt consists of an ivory grip tapering from the square pommel and prominent tang button to the brass ferrule and cross-guard. The arms of the cross-guards are of a flattened diamond section, and beneath them there is a small 'shell'. The blade, from what can be seen of it, it is stuck in the scabbard, is double-edged with a central fuller and there is evidence of gilding. The leather scabbard has brass mounts and two suspension rings. The lockets and chape have fluted edges and a simple line decoration.

Thomas Wells was promoted to Lieutenant in 1795 and to Commander in 1808 while commanding the sloop HMS 'Cruiser'. In 1811 he commanded the sloop HMS 'Phipps' and in 1812 captured the French privateer 'Le Cerf'. Later that year he assisted in the recapture of HMS 'Apelles'. See also swords WPN1512 and WPN1514.