Naval Presentation sword belonging to the Duke of Clarence (later King William IV), 1800 (c)

William joined the Royal Navy in 1778 as a midshipman on HMS 'Prince George', a 90-gun ship of the line. Two years later, during the American War of Independence (1775-1783), he was present at Admiral Rodney's victory over the Spanish at Cape St Vincent. During the American conflict William was also stationed at New York and in the West Indies. The latter posting included a spell of service under Nelson on whom he made a favourable impression.

At the age of 21 he was made captain of the frigate HMS 'Pegasus' and three years later commanded another frigate, HMS 'Andromeda'. William was promoted to rear-admiral in command of the 74-gun HMS 'Valiant' in 1789. His active service ceased the following year, although he did eventually become Admiral of the Fleet in 1811 and Lord High Admiral in 1827. William had great influence on naval affairs and during his reign was nicknamed the 'Sailor King'.

This sword was made by Coates of London and bought by Lord Magherambe at a sale of the dead King's effects and later given to Major-General Sir Robert McCleverty. Both men were friends of the King. Sir Robert was Colonel Commandant of the Royal Marines and the King had presented his own KCH (Knight Commander of the Royal Guelphic Order) insignia to him as a token of their friendship.