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Thingamabobers

RARE Authentic 19th Century Fur Trade Era Native American Dag Knife - Sheffield Maker's Mark - Beaver Tail Handle

Regular price
$2,700.00
Regular price
Sale price
$2,700.00
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This artifact is an authentic, rare antique Native American "Dag" knife, a significant historical piece from the North American fur trade era (late 18th to mid-19th century). Measuring approximately 13 inches in total length with an 8-inch blade, this example features the classic, iconic "beaver tail" or paddle-shaped hardwood handle, decorated with brass or iron pins. The image of the blade reveals a faint but crucial manufacturer's "touchmark"—likely a cross or similar symbol from a Sheffield, England, manufacturer (e.g., I&H Sorby). These marks are highly sought after as they confirm the blade's provenance and period authenticity. The entire knife exhibits significant patina, darkening, and wear, consistent with a genuine artifact that saw extensive use as a versatile personal weapon and tool during a pivotal period of American history.

  • Period: North American Fur Trade Era (circa 1800-1860s).
  • Material: Forged iron/steel blade, hardwood handle, brass or iron pins.
  • Markings: Faint manufacturer touchmark visible on the blade.
  • Design: Fixed blade, "beaver tail" or paddle-shaped handle with metal pin decoration.
  • Dimensions: ~13 inches total length; ~8-inch blade length.
  • Condition: Excellent aged condition with a deep, dark patina and signs of use and sharpening.
  • History: These knives were essential trade goods supplied by trading companies (like the Hudson's Bay Company) to Native American tribes in exchange for furs, becoming iconic items carried by warriors and hunters.
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RARE Authentic 19th Century Fur Trade Era Native American Dag Knife - Sheffield Maker&
RARE Authentic 19th Century Fur Trade Era Native American Dag Knife - Sheffield Maker&
RARE Authentic 19th Century Fur Trade Era Native American Dag Knife - Sheffield Maker&
RARE Authentic 19th Century Fur Trade Era Native American Dag Knife - Sheffield Maker&
RARE Authentic 19th Century Fur Trade Era Native American Dag Knife - Sheffield Maker&
RARE Authentic 19th Century Fur Trade Era Native American Dag Knife - Sheffield Maker&
RARE Authentic 19th Century Fur Trade Era Native American Dag Knife - Sheffield Maker&
RARE Authentic 19th Century Fur Trade Era Native American Dag Knife - Sheffield Maker&
RARE Authentic 19th Century Fur Trade Era Native American Dag Knife - Sheffield Maker&
RARE Authentic 19th Century Fur Trade Era Native American Dag Knife - Sheffield Maker&
RARE Authentic 19th Century Fur Trade Era Native American Dag Knife - Sheffield Maker&

Testimonials

The craftsmanship on this piece is extraordinary. The effigy carving and brass tacks tell a story you can feel in your hands. A centerpiece of my Great Lakes collection.

Collector of Native American Artifacts

Authentic history preserved perfectly. The condition exceeded expectations, and the provenance documentation gave me complete confidence. Worth every penny.

WWII History Enthusiast

Owning a piece of ordnance history like this is surreal. The casting detail is remarkable, and it's become the conversation starter in my Civil War display.

Civil War Collector

Finding an excavated Revolutionary War relic this intact is nearly impossible. The script is crisp, and knowing it was worn by a Continental soldier gives me chills.

Revolutionary War Historian

The Sheffield maker's mark and beaver tail handle make this an museum-quality piece. Exactly the kind of authentic trade-era artifact I've been searching for.

Fur Trade Era Specialist