Original British Pearl-Handled U.S. Market Bowie Knife by E.M. Dickinson of Sheffield with Scabbard c. 1885 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. During the latter half of the 19th Century, there was much money to be made supplying goods to the U.S. Frontier areas, the famous ‘Old West’. The domestic suppliers were mostly based in the Eastern U.S., so items had to be imported, either from the East, or from overseas.  The city of Sheffield, England has a long history of edged weapon and steel production, and makers there were happy to satisfy the demand, making many “American Style” weapons, such as this very nice Pearl-Handled Bowie Knife. Sheffield-made knives played a big part in the American history, from the Gold Rush to the West, and more.

This lovely example of an Old West “Bowie Hunter” knife is marked clearly on the blade ricasso with the maker’s name and location:

E. M.
DICKINSON
SHEFFIELD

E.M. Dickinson founded his Sheffield factory, known as Murray Works, in about 1882. It wasn’t until 1891 that the U.S. required country of origin markings, so this knife was certainly produced prior to that change. It features a blade with a full-width tang, most likely made from a longer sword blade. The crossguard is solid “German Silver”, and the pearl grip scales have a nice escutcheon made from the same material.

Condition is very good, with the blade showing wear from use and polishing, with a lovely used patina. There are no cracks or major chips in the pearl handles as well. The Southwest style leather sheath is very nice, but most likely is not the original for the knife.

A great knife, ready to add to any Old West or Edged Weapon collection.

Specifications:
Blade Length: 6 3/4″
Blade Style: Single Edged Clip Point “Bowie”
Overall length: 10 7/8“
Crossguard: 2 3/8”
Scabbard Length: 8″