LOT Old Heritage Auctions  /  2007 Collection of Western History #680  / 

74036

FINEST-ETCHED "AMERICAN CHOICE" BOWIE KNIFE

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:5,000.00 USD Estimated At:10,000.00 - 20,000.00 USD
FINEST-ETCHED AMERICAN CHOICE BOWIE KNIFE
<B>FINEST-ETCHED "AMERICAN CHOICE" BOWIE KNIFE IN EXISTENCE, CIRCA 1840-50.</B></I> This beautiful Bowie knife measures 12" overall and is striking in its appearance, especially the etching on the 7" blade. Stamped at the ricasso, "Edward Barnes & Sons Celebrated Dirk Knife", the blade continues for the full 7" with elaborate etching of the company name with "Sheffield" added below at about 1" from the ricasso. The Sheffield, England manufacturers of fine knives attracted American buyers by etching the American eagle onto their blades as in this knife where the eagle is depicting standing on a Federal shield clutching arrows. At 1" from the tip the etching "America's Choice" amid a scroll appears making nearly the entire left side of the blade etched from ricasso to tip. While there are scratch marks on the right side of the blade giving evidence of use, the overall blade, especially the etching, are in remarkable condition.<BR>The 4 1/2" ivory handle has a carved scalloped shell pommel and is in excellent condition. The ivory exhibits a nice beige color from use but is still in near-pristine condition. The thin 2" oval crossguard finishes the knife in a beautiful fashion making this a prized Bowie, well-etched with a wonderful ivory handle.<BR>A red Moroccan leather sheath stamped with a gold border accompanies the Bowie and is embossed with a portrait of General Zachary Taylor on both sides. The sheath has a 3/4" brass throat with frog and a 1 1/2" brass tip. The finest etched blade in existence made during the Mexican War.<I> From The William Turner Collection.</B></I><BR><BR><b>Shipping:</b> Bats, Clubs, Sticks, Swords, Rif (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.heritageauctions.com/common/shipping.php">view shipping information</a>)
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