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FINE 19TH CENTURY AMERICAN BOWIE KNIFE.

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:2,500.00 USD Estimated At:5,000.00 - 8,000.00 USD
FINE 19TH CENTURY AMERICAN BOWIE KNIFE.
This recently discovered knife measures 17" overall with an 11-1/2" clip point blade which is just over 1-1/2" at its widest, 1/4" thick at ricasso. Knife is very well made by craftsman with skills not only in making blades but in carving wood, brass forming and cutting leather as grip and scabbard are also well made. The 11-1/2" blade has a 3" well beveled clip point which is further beveled about 1-1/2" toward back of blade. The handle appears to be made of rosewood with silver inlays of two stars and two hearts and an oct brass ferrule and pommel that is fluted and brass guard has intricate faceted shapes as can be seen in photos. Leather scabbard fits knife well though is lacking any belt attachment. Similar silver inlays are noted on American long rifles and occasionally on a known Bowie knife made in the South. Regardless of who made this knife, it is a fine expression of an American craftsman, most likely of the Antebellum South or maybe Texas based on the star inlays. CONDITION: Knife is very good overall. The blade is gray still showing filed finishing marks, old sharpening, scattered stains and pitting. Brass and silver have good aged patina. Rosewood has several small hairline cracks and the two heart inlays are missing. Scabbard is fine, retaining most of its orig brown finish, though scuffed at point and slightly shrunk such that there is 1/4 inch gap at throat. 4-47765 JS14