June 9-10, 2017 Premier Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/10/2017
Circa 1856-1869. Overall measures 11". Symmetrical double edged diamond section 7" steel blade, marked on the ricasso "[R.] BUNTING & SON, SHEFFIELD", the face of the blade personalized with dry-needle style etching that reads, in part, “James Mitchell”. Full tang construction with horn handle, nickel silver disc inlaid on the obverse side and a nickel silver crossguard. Original morocco leather sheath with nickel silver tip and throat has been strengthened with strips of tin soldered between the mounts on both sides, a clever modification. Blade in excellent condition with scattered patina, little sign of sharpening. Horn handles with a patch of insect damage on each side. Guard is loose.
Richard Bunting & Son operated in Sheffield under that name from 1856 to 1869, at which time the business was closed. This knife is typical of those popular with soldiers during the Civil War era.