GUN SPRING 2016
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/14/2016
VERY RARE THOMAS LEECH & CO, CONFEDERATE NAVAL KNIFE.This rare Confederate Naval knife is pictured on pg. 125, Confederate Bowie Knives by Melton, Phillips & Sexton, and is the only example known. 20-1/8" overall, 15-1/8" double edged blade with central spine, .24" thick at ricasso, 1-11/16" wide. It is of note that scabbard mounts seen on known Naval cutlasses by Cook & Bros., Dufilho, Thomas Griswold & Co., and the Selma Armory are pretty much identical in form and length; most likely denoting Confederate Naval contract specifications. Throat on this example is identical to these also. There are many examples of cutlasses in this configuration, but this unique weapon can be called nothing other than a "Naval Bowie Knife". Cutlass blades are narrower, lighter and typically over 20" with "S" shaped crossguards. This unique example has a 4" lozenge shape crossguard and has beautiful aesthetics. SIZE: PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of John Ashworth. CONDITION: Fine overall, blade shows original tool marks, gray overall with staining and pitting. Sheath is sound retaining much of its original finish, tight stitching, typical friction fit throat, missing drag. Brass hilt, and throat exhibit medium mustard colored patina. 50185-7 JS (8,000-12,000)