GUN SPRING 2016
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/14/2016
RARE "MEMPHIS" MARKED THOMAS LEECH & CO, MEMPHIS NOVELTY WORKS SIDE KNIFE.22-3/4" overall, 17-3/4" single fullered double edged blade, 1-11/16" wide, .30" thick at ricasso. This knife is very similar to unmarked example shown on pg. 121, Confederate Bowie Knives by Melton, Phillips & Sexton. Knife exhibits 5" brass crossguard with "S" shape. This example is stamped "MEMPHIS" on top of crossguard utilizing same dies as Leech used on their enlisted cavalry sabers, this is the only complete example with this marking we are aware. "This side knife has the smaller foot officer's pommel. This pommel, like that on all Leech knives, has no hole underneath where a knucklebow would have entered. Thus, while they were cast from the same molds as those for swords, they were never punched for a sword guard. This well-made pattern comes with a variety of blades, grips and scabbard mounts. In most cases, as with this knife, a protective leather washer was placed around the blade to cushion against the metal of the scabbard throat which this example retains. While some collectors refer to these as short swords, the blades are lighter than similar short sword blades, and we consider all of this form to be side knives. The grip has a wood core covered with cord, all wrapped with oiled cloth and single strand iron wire. this is the same grip technique utilized on most swords by Leech." SIZE: PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of John Ashworth. CONDITION: Very good overall, blade is gray, cleaned, showing moderate pitting. Sheath which is brass mounted is identical to construction to example shown of same type on pg. 121, "Confederate Bowie Knives", and may be unique to this form. Grip is worn has high spots exposing cord, retaining strong traces of its original black surface, iron wire is still tight. Crossguard is loose as protective washer is torn. Crossguard and pommel are cleaned with several dents and bends, especially noted on short lip of pommel, brass patina is a mixed dark to light color, lighter where cleaned. The "MEMPHIS" marking is clear with exception of "M" which was very lightly struck. Leather sheath body is sound and solid retaining much of its original surface though cracked, crazed and chipped. Throat is missing frog button, drag is missing its tip and 2 of its copper retaining pins. Both mounts are dented and dinged, especially heavily on drag. 50185-4 JS (8,000-12,000)