Original British Napoleonic Royal Navy Midshipman's Dirk - circa 1800
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Original Item: Only One Available. Traditionally aged 12 or 13 years of age, the young sons of England's gentry entered the Royal Navy a sailors with the rank of MIDSHIPMAN. This was basically a post of Ensign, which the lad had to endure for four or five years before being promoted to usually a Lieutenant. All the great Sailors of the era did this including HORATIO NELSON.
This is a lovely Royal Naval Dirk, basically a long knife, which these young ensigns wore as a sign of their status as "trainee Officers". This example has a 10" double edged blade, which has a single fuller down both sides, and is engraved faintly around the first 6 inches of the glade. There are some very faint traces of the original decorative "Fire-blue" finish. It has an all brass ribbed hilt, originally gilt with decorative turnings and wire binding etc. Overall length 13 1/2".
A great paper knife or letter opener, which happens to be a significant British Royal Navy memento from a junior Officer c.1800. Ready to display on your desk!
- This product is available for international shipping.
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