June 9-10, 2017 Premier Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/10/2017
Circa 1830's. Long clip point blade with long false edge and Spanish notch, marked “W (CROWN) R W. BUTCHER SHEFFIELD”, the blade etched with scrollwork and the words “Arkansas Toothpick”. Rosewood scales on nickel silver frame with escutcheons on both sides. Original beautifully embossed silver sheath is extensively engraved with scrollwork and floral motifs, a real work of art. Blade in superb condition with some tarnishing, little used with several small nicks in the edge. Handle with three cracks at pommel end but all intact. Minor nicks and dents to sheath. Ex. Dave Petty, Mike Worley collections.
William Butcher (usually in conjunction with brother Samuel) was a leader in the manufacture of Sheffield tools and cutlery, and produced some very fine Bowie knives during the 1830's. While all of the Butcher dogbone Bowies are desirable this is the rarer type with the flatter handle, and only a couple of sheaths made and engraved like this are known. An outstanding example of the type, one of the finest known.