GUN FALL 2015
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/5/2015
UNIQUE & EXTREMELY RARE AMERICAN SILVER MOUNTED WAR OF 1812 ERA NAVAL DIRK.This dirk which is thought to have been made, though unmarked, by Jacob Schaffer of Washington, PA and found with the previous Schaffer marked swords in same estate. This dirk of the earliest pattern which measures 14" overall with 9-1/4" curved blade with single fuller like the Schaffer marked sword and has blue & gold decoration. The 4-1/2" cross-guard terminates in elegant, well formed eagle heads similar in style to a circa 1800 "Rose" American made dirk pictured in Peter Tuite''s US Naval Officer''s - Their Swords and Dirks. Carved grip is made from highly polished bone which was made to simulate ivory which was quite scarce in Federal Era America. The scabbard is solid silver with chased engraved border panels terminating in an unique clam shell shaped finial. Early American silver mounted dirks with eagles are extremely rare. This is the only example known in this design. SIZE: CONDITION: Fine overall. Blade overall is white/grey with old sharpening, with about 80% of its orig gold decoration and strong traces of its orig bright blue, especially in protected areas of the fuller. Grip is sound, solid, well fit with some wear in hand worn patina to high areas. Scabbard has large dent on reverse about 5" from tip that does not effect aesthetics. Silver scabbard, hilt & guard have dark silver patina and scattered blemishes as can be seen in photos. Accompanying this dirk are a pair "J.SCHAFFER" (which possibly only one other example exists in Washington County History Society) marked early 19th Century spoons which are overall very good though polished. 49516-1 JS (8,000-12,000)