1899 pattern gymnasia practice sword.2

 Looks to be an 1899 pattern gymnasia practice sword.  The ability to wield a sword effectively has always been a vital factor in the basic training of a military swordsman. During the 19^th century the British army became to belief that swordsmanship could be improved by the art of fencing. Which led to the introduction of gymnasium swords. These swords were used purely for practice.  The sword has a pierced steel ¾ bowl handguard with a nice pierced scroll type design (not dissimilar to the 1912 pattern cavalry officers sword). Shagreen / sharkskin grip with signs of wear with twisted brass wire. 3 of the brass wires are missing. Straight blade measuring approx. 34 inches / 86 ¼ cm with a blunted end. The blade has a narrow fuller and the blade is stamped near the ricasso with 3 dots, the other side of the blade shows a crown over a shield. In the center of the shield is a Z with a dot to either side of the Z and the makers initials C&J.  Overall length is 41 inches / 104.3 cm.