October 25, 2023 The Paul Friedrich Collection of Firearms & Gold Rush
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/25/2023
Classic Gold Rush era spearpoint blade etched in large and impressive, oversized capital letters on left side of blade: "CALIFORNIA KNIFE." Stamped above is "G.WOLSTENHOLM & SON / WASHINGTON WORKS / NONE ARE GENUINE BUT THOSE MARKED I*XL." and in a scrolled banner, "THE REAL I.X.L. KNIFE / THE HUNTERS COMPANION". Ricasso is stamped with large "I*XL." Full tang construction, nickel silver reinforced guard with stag scales held by 4 silver pins, with a silver escutcheon on obverse. The original red Moroccan scabbard also has the I*XL branded in gold along with "THE REAL HUNTING KNIFE / WASHINGTON WORKS." Circa 1850s, by the most famous and prolific maker of English bowie knives for America and the California Gold Rush market. This knife is pictured in "California's Best / Old West Art and Antiques" by Brian and Brad Witherell. CONDITION: The blade shows signs of light edge sharpening with some areas of light scattered mossing. Acid-etched letters are very strong, and as fine as one could hope to find in this style example. Scales are tight to the tang and show no hard wear or insect damage.