Revolutionary War Dagger / Belt Knife with antler handle (ON HOLD,MW)

This knife is one of the nicest I’ve had. It would be considered a dagger or belt knife with an overall length of 9 ½” with a 5” blade. One edge is sharpened and the other side blunt. It has a beautifully carved elk or deer antler handle that was split and riveted to the blade. It has a very unique carved horn ferrel.  

For the Revolutionary War soldier a knife was essential for daily survival, eating, and close-quarters combat. These ranged from small folding pocket knives for utility tasks to long, fixed-blade belt knives and daggers used for fighting, skinning game, and camp chores. While not being "standard issue", some colonies, such as New York and New Hampshire, required their militias to carry knives. This is a great looking knife and remains very solid. There are similar examples in “Collector’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of the American Revolution” by Neumann & Kravic (see pictures).

Revolutionary War artifacts have always been difficult to find, and I am fortunate to have quite a few pieces in stock. With the upcoming of the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding next year, there will be a revitalized interest. Just about all Revolutionary War relics and artifacts will be in demand, which will only add to their scarcity and price. I am already seeing a substantial increase in purchases.