This exact knife is pictured on pg 235 of Confederate Bowie Knives by Melton, Phillips and Sexton. This is 1 of only 3 crown stag gripped C. S. knives that were photographed from over 500 knives. Crown stag is rare in Confederate Bowies and this is a wonderful, massive knife measuring 20-15/16" overall, blade 15-3/16" with a massive .33" thick crosshatched ricasso with other cut designs on back of blade. This knife exhibits a 4-1/2" clip with a very large handle that fits the hand quite well with good balance. The iron crossguard has crosshatched design also showing skill of maker. This knife was originally found in an estate which included the wartime diary (which was sold separately) of George B. Telford, Co. C 1st South Carolina State Troops. The 1st SCST garrisoned and patrolled around Charleston during late 1863 but Telford's diary entries also include early 1865. His diary which a portion is reproduced with accompanying provenance in one note states he saw the CS submarine Hunley being built though we did not see it in the light copies of some diary pages. This is a most unusual form that has great untouched look and aesthetics. SIZE: PROVENANCE: Ex-Brent and Barry Smith, Greensboro, NC; Ex-Don Bryan, Troutville, VA; Ex-Jimmy Wrenn Collection; Wayne McNeese Collection, 2001. CONDITION: Blade and guard show heavy iron patina, uncleaned with scale and pitting, several large nicks in cutting edge and point is dulled. Guard is a bit loose due to loss of protective washer or shrinkage of stag. Stag grip exhibits dark hand worn patina. 50428-5 JS (8,000-12,000)