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Title Napoleonic era naval dirk
Nationality English
Period c 1795
Sold

Typical of the dirks carried by midshipmen on both sides in the Napoleonic Wars, I am pretty sure this is English, but it could just possibly be Dutch or even French. The use of the cannon barrel for a crossguard is unusual on English pieces, and the ferrule and top mount are facetted in an unusual manner, reminiscent of a pineapple.

The grip would appear to be ebony and the mounts have perhaps 20% or so of their remaining gilt on the hilt and rather less on the scabbard. There are two hairline cracks running halfway up the grip, easily filled with black boot heel, if desired.

The double-edged blade is just over 7" long and has a diamond cross section. It has what is undoubtedly its original leather scabbard with an old scar on the bottom half of the face. The scabbard leather would appear to be dark brown, but could have been stained black once upon a time. It has its original red cloth seating at the base of the blade, somewhat ragged and oil stained, but nonetheless clearly period. Otherwise it is in excellent shape.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.


[Edged Weapons : Dirks : British : 18th Century]

testimonials

[From a vendor, rather than a buyer]

I'm delighted that you are happy with the badge and I hope you can sell it to someone who will value owning it.

I tried to sell it on eBay but they won't accept Nazi items. I then contacted several dealers via a Google search who mostly offered me £40-£50 after some haggling. Most of the other dealers tried to conceal its true value in their replies and also lacked manners which doesn't inspire confidence.

Ultimately it's about trust. I should think that most prospective sellers have done their own research and therefore know roughly what their item is worth. You were the only dealer who had the integrity to concede that my valuation was approximately correct and I respect your comment that you can't offer this as you need to make a profit. Your honest approach is greatly appreciated and I felt comfortable taking the risk in sending it to you.

Thank you for a smooth transaction

C D, UK, 01.07.2015

I have safely received the VK 2 award. Many thanks for dealing with my order so promptly.

I G, UK, 28.03.2006

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