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FINE COMPOSITE WAR OF 1812 ERA NAVAL DIRK

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:400.00 USD Estimated At:800.00 - 1,200.00 USD
FINE COMPOSITE WAR OF 1812 ERA NAVAL DIRK
PERSONALIZED TO THE SAILING MASTER OF THE USS ENTERPRISE. Overall length: 18 3/8". Blade length: 14 1/8". The sharply curved flat blade has a 5 3/4" false edge and is blued over the first 9 1/2". The etching includes various foliate motifs, along with the bust of a female with a large hat/headdress. Gilded brass semi-pistol grip hilt. The elliptical brass guard appears to be a skilled museum quality restoration, as does the chain guard. The ferrule is linearly decorated, and the backstrap is engraved "USS. Enterprise Sailing Master James Bassett" & "1813". The sides of the pommel are engraved with a stylized dolphin on one side, and a fouled anchor on the other. Certifiably antique ivory grip with horizontal lineal carving. Gilded brass mounted leather scabbard with both mounts and the tip intact. CONDITION: the blade is most impressive with substantial blue & gold remaining and no appreciable problems. The hilt shows traces of original gilding, and the grip has a few cracks and minor losses primarily at the edge of the grip. The engraving remains quite clear, but it is difficult to determine the exact age of the engraving. The scabbard shows wear but remains quite solid. The body is flexed & flaked showing a seam opening as it nears the tip. The mounts show a trace of original gilding. An exceptionally visually impressive dirk. (02-19589/BF). $800-1,200.