January 19th 2017 Premier Gold Rush
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/19/2017
This maker who is unknown by name, was one of the very earliest American Bowie makers. All his knives are beautiful, quite possibly a silversmith or jeweler. These knives are one of the most highly sought by collectors of American Bowies. This is a very famous knife, illustrated on page 10 of "Bowie Knives Origin and Development" October 1979, the famous exhibition catalog of the Bill Williamson collection, American Blade July-Aug 1975 issue, page 44, and Arms Gazette March 1977 issue, page 46. Also in the Bill Williamson dispersal sale after his death. Circa 1830. Overall length 14-1/2", blade length 9-3/4". Swedge 3-3/4" on one side, fuller rest of the length of the blade to the guard. Rare early Spanish notch feature where bottom of blade joins guard. Condition fine with four chips to the sharpened edge of blade. Practically all the original polish, some light scratching to the surface. Walnut dog bone style hilt. All mounts of coin silver. Wooden slabs, enhanced with six silver studs on each side. One stud missing on each side. Silver name plate on each slab. Grips, silver wrapped all around. Original coin silver sheath with ring mount. The Bob Abel's red nail polish inventory number "44" painted on the back of blade and on scabbard.
Item Dimensions: Overall: 14-1/2"L.