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Large Calif. Made! Bowie Knife, by Rau & Todt

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:3,500.00 USD Estimated At:4,500.00 - 7,000.00 USD
Large Calif. Made!   Bowie Knife, by Rau & Todt
Auction Location:

16600 Aston Street
Irvine, CA
Large California Made Bowie Knife, by Rau & Todt, 9-3/8'' clip-point blade with lightly sharpened false edge, 14-3/8'' overall, double doll's head shaped iron crossguard, with thick elk antler scales affixed with three brass pins. Crossguard is slightly angled from perpendicular; handle tapers gently from approx. 7/8'' at hilt to 1-3/8'' at pommel. Correct original scabbard shows stitched body, brass banded throat, and double line punchdot embossing to front. Dating from the last quarter of the 19th Century. Condition is fine with light scuffs and scratches to blade from sharpening, and minor carbon discoloration. Figure to grips has worn somewhat smooth; stag has toned to a rich honey color. Scabbard retains approx. 80% stitching with most of the losses to the unprotected tip. Brass band throat appears to be repair or strengthening modification. A scarce and unusual San Francisco made camp knife in the Bowie style. Est.: $4,500-$7,000.