Of the numerous Confederate Bowie knives made in 1861 and 1862, this is among the very finest examples you will ever see by unknown maker with great cutlery skill. Several similar high quality brass mounted knives with sabre ground blades are known to have been made in North Carolina by Moravian craftsmen (Confederate Bowie Knives, by Melton, Philips & Sexton 2012). This particular example is 17-1/2" overall, in tin mounted leather scabbard. Blade which appears made from a file almost 12" long, .31" thick at ricasso with 4-1/2" clip point with additional 2-1/2" of beveling. Turned shaped wooden handle has brass pommel, ferrule and 4" turned down cross guard. You will not find a better condition or finer Confederate Bowie knife. SIZE: PROVENANCE: Robert Berryman collection; Lot #3951 Butterfield''s 3-23 1992; Paul Tudor Jones II Collection. CONDITION: Excellent, blade is bright gray showing original tool marks with light sharpening and several tiny nicks in cutting edge, scattered areas of staining and pin prick pitting. Brass has dark mustard and brass patina. Polished wood handle retains over 90% of its original varnished finish with edge wear. Accompanying original scabbard retains tin throat and tip with about half of their original black paint with large portions of original bright metal surface with balance dark gray patina. Remnants of pasted paper sticker have faded indiscernible ink inscription, leather body retains most of its original black tared coating with 1/2" cut that does not affect aesthetics as can be seen in photos. 49941-28 JS (6,000-8,000)