3170 SUPERB 1830-1860 SAILOR’S BELT KNIFE.

Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 1,500.00 USD
Estimated at 3,000.00 - 4,000.00 USD
Overall length: 13 3/4". Blade length: 8 3/4". A very folky and visually attractive belt knife, likely for a sailor. Flat blade with a 2 1/2" false edge and a decorative cut behind the false edge. The blade swells nearly 3/4" from guard to tip. The oval guard is solid sheet silver reinforced by another oval of silver on top. The rectangular, certifiably antique ivory grip, which is likely whale ivory, has a rectangular silver pommel cap. The grip has 12 distinct silver inlays, evenly distributed over all four sides. The inlays include an anchor, diamond, arrow, star, heart, moon, and shield, as well as five more geometric inlays. The knife has its original leather sheath with scalloping on the top. CONDITION: the blade has an overall dark patina and does show some evidence of early sharpening, as one would expect. The silver inlays have a pleasing tarnish. The grip has several tight cracks from drying. Sheath is in solid condition and appears original to the knife. An extraordinary knife that should really be seen to be appreciated. (02-22672/BF). $3,000-4,000.