Original U.S. Civil War British IXL Bowie Knife with Staghorn Grip Plates & Scabbard with Leather Belt Frog by G. Wostenholm & Son of Sheffield
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Original Item. Only One Available. I*XL has been one of the most well known Sheffield trade marks. The first company known for using the mark on knives was George Wolstenholme and Son. This is a tremendous example of an American Civil War era Bowie knife manufactured by Wolstenholme for the American market. The maker’s markings date the knife to approximately 1860-1870. This example comes in its original German Silver-mounted leather scabbard with an integrated leather belt loop.
The 9⅞” blade is in great condition, and bears the vertical marking:
G. WOSTENHOLM & SON
WASHINGTON WORKS
SHEFFIELD
And at the ricasso is the stylized I*XL that has become synonymous with this maker. The Washington Works shop in Sheffield, England, was purchased by George Wostenholm in 1848. The Wostenholm company moved into their huge Washington Works facility, perfectly positioning them to deal with the demands of the American market during the period of western expansion.
The blade is in great shape with some small nicks to the edge and past oxidation having been cleaned away. The original staghorn plate grips are in great condition, held in by four small rivets, with a small German Silver plate in the center on one side. The staghorn has held up very well. The knife measures 14¾” overall.
The original German Silver-mounted leather scabbard is in good condition, with the silver throat and drag still well-retained with some denting. The leather is still intact with some crazing in the finish, but the stitching has held up very well on the back. The incorporated leather belt loop is a very nice touch, supposedly added after the belt stud broke off.
A lovely Civil War bowie knife, ready for further research and display!
Specifications:
Blade Length: 9⅞"
Overall length: 14¾”
Crossguard: 3 1/4”
Scabbard Length: 10 1/2” + belt loop
- This product is available for international shipping.
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