Persian Model 1909 Cossack Cavalry Sword

The Persian Cossack Brigade, also known as the Iranian Cossack Brigade was a Cossack-style cavalry unit formed in 1879 in Iran. It was modelled after the Caucasian Cossack regiments of the Imperial Russian Army. Until 1920, it was commanded by Russian officers, while its rank and file were composed of ethnic Caucasians and later on Iranians as well. During much of the brigade's history it was the most functional and effective military unit of the Qajar dynasty. Acting on occasion as kingmakers, this force played a pivotal role in modern Iranian history during the Persian Constitutional Revolution, the rise of Reza Shah, and the foundation of the Pahlavi dynasty.

In the 19th century Britain and Russia competed with each other in what was called “The Great Game” – political control of Central Asia. Eventually the Russians would train several units of Persian cavalry, led by Russian officers, but officially “in service” to the Persian throne. These cavalry formations became the most formidable units in the country, and would become known as the “Persian Cossack Brigade” although they were not ethnically Cossacks. After the Russian 1917 Revolution, command of the brigade went to Persian General Reza Khan, who would eventually use them to stage a coup and start a dynasty that ended when his son, Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, was toppled by the Islamic Republic of Iran in 1979.

The sword has a slightly spiral cut wooden grip and brass hardware. The wide fullered 31 ½ inch blade terminates in a rather blunted spear point. The ricasso has an armory marking numeral in Arabic. Brass single bar hilt and pommel. complete with steel scabbard.

The Persian Cossack Brigade, also known as the Iranian Cossack Brigade was a Cossack-style cavalry unit formed in 1879 in Iran. It was modelled after the Caucasian Cossack regiments of the Imperial Russian Army. Until 1920, it was commanded by Russian officers, while its rank and file were composed of ethnic Caucasians and later on Iranians as well. During much of the brigade's history it was the most functional and effective military unit of the Qajar dynasty. Acting on occasion as kingmakers, this force played a pivotal role in modern Iranian history during the Persian Constitutional Revolution, the rise of Reza Shah, and the foundation of the Pahlavi dynasty.


Please note Swords will be shipped via private courier at a flat rate across Australia at $120, this will be added after purchase.

Code: 4903