This is a George III period, bronze scabbard locket (the mouthpiece or throat of a scabbard), for a 1796 pattern Infantry Officers sword, & dating to circa 1797.

The front of the locket is engraved 'PROSSER late Cullum - Sword Cutler & c. - to the KING & Duke of York - Charing Crof' (sic).

The rear of the locket has a 'hook', which was used to allow the sword to be suspended from a frog attached to the shoulder belt

Matthew Cullum traded from 9 Charing Cross, London, from 1792 to 1796 & was succeeded by John Prosser who traded from the same address from 1797 to 1853.

The King referred to in the inscription was King George III & the Duke of York was Prince Frederick, the Kings second son.

The locket is in great condition for what would have been a utilitarian piece, & is entirely consistent with its 211 years : there are around 3 small dents & some gouge marks to the rear, a few gouge marks to the sides, & gouging to the top of the front (the gouging would have happened when the Officer was less than careful when re-scabbarding).

The locket measures approx 10cm in length x 3cm wide (4" x 1.25").

All in all, an interesting 211 year old piece of history, from a famous sword cutler.