TILLOTSON GOLD RUSH ERA BOWIE KNIFE.

Circa 1850s Sheffield made clip point Bowie for the California market. Measures 12 - 1/2" overall with an 8" blade and a 5" false edge. Very faint acid etch scroll and vines with "Gold Hunter's Knife" over a federal eagle holding a banner that reads "Palo Alto", in honor of the first battle of the Mexican War on U.S. soil before the campaign moved to Mexico itself. Ricasso marked "TILLOTSON / COLUMBIA PLACE / SHEFFIELD.". Coffin handle with mother of pearl scales held in place with 4 silver pins, left hand side escutcheon, 'S' shaped silver crossguard, throat, and stamped silver lion motif pommel cap. CONDITION: Very good. Blade previously cleaned and sharpened with a blunted tip. Correct Moroccan leather scabbard with silver throat and drag. Blade Length: 8" Overall Length: 12 - 1/2"