Image Lot Price Description




1381
$16,675.00

RARE AND UNIQUE MASSIVE EARLY BOWIE KNIFE “GEORGE YOUNG HIS DAGGER 1825”.

George Young must have been a man of huge stature and personage to carry such a knife. The razor sharp double-edged blade is acid etched on both sides with floral design, large thistle and a 6″ cornucopia. The blade is 18-1/2″ long, with a 3-1/2″ median line toward the tip of the blade. Overall the dagger measures 27-1/2″, and sports a beautiful massive crown stag handle 8-1/2″ long, and 5-1/2″ in circumference. The unique style and shaped guard is iron and is in the form of a large Maltese cross to protect the hand in combat. This incredible old knife comes with its orig fitted leather sheath with pinned brass mounts. Scabbard mounts and structure are reminiscent of early American made Bowie knives. Four distinctive designs are also embossed into the leather sheath making the overall effect quite beautiful. Perhaps the most interesting feature of this hefty dagger is the acid etching in the 5-1/2″ riband on the blade: “George Young His Dagger 1825” in flowing wave. Below that are the initials “S.E.” which possibly denote artist who etched blade. It’s interesting to note that the owner personalized his knife and Americanized it too, with the words “His Dagger”. Words that are also found on early and rare American powder horns, such as “(name) His Horn”. This knife is published in the 2001 Journal of the Antique Bowie Knife Association where this description was taken. It would be interesting to know who George Young was as this knife is dated just prior to Bowie’s Sandbar Fight. Regardless, this is a wonderful, impressive weapon that would grace the finest collection or museum. PROVENANCE: Robert Abels Collection, Rick Mack Collection, Bryan Bossier Collection, Greg Martin Auctions, Lot 923, June 26, 2007. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Blade retains much of its orig finish with several small nicks in cutting surface, old sharpening, staining and pitting. Tang of blade is peened with good patina, about 1/4″ of a pewter cap seal is missing. Scabbard is sound and solid with scuffing and loss of some of its dyed surface as can be seen in photos. There is longitudinal crack in crown stag grip, grip is still sound and solid. Brass mounts are very good with mustard colored patina and staining. 4-54466 JS (8,000-12,000) – Lot 1381

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Auction: Firearms - March 2015
Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.