Thanks to all you gentlemen for the kind words. I am certainly a happy campaigner! Indeed< I should clarify that the minimum of $400-$500 I had been anticipating I'd have to pay is the going price for a sword in poorer condition than this one.
I am doubly pleased to report that I have just returned from a day-trip to Calgary for a gun and militaria show, where I saw a Rifle officer's pattern sword in poorer condition than the one I just snagged (and of much later manufacture - 1939 - and thus having the '"king's crown" over the bugle-horn in the device on the guard, which is entirely inappropriate for a Victorian-era impression) laying on a sword dealers table there marked C$895! ( That is over US$750 at current exchange rates ....)
Texas Lawdog this sword is "incorrect" for my Black Watch impression ..... Indeed, unless you are referring to photos, I believe you have only seen me in my Queen's Own Rifles of Canada 'field' uniform, and my Black Watch 'undress' jacket and trews (which is what I wore to the banquet at Fort Hartsuff ....)
Mind you only my natural diffidence and modesty ....
.... prevent me from agreeing wholeheartedly that I do, indeed, cut a moderatelyr dashing figure in Black Watch dress uniform - however, I already have the correct Highland Pattern officer's sword for that impression .....