LARGE AMERICAN NAVAL OFFiCER'S DIRK. Top of the handle decorated with an Eagle's head that's held in place by a capstan shaped rivet. Guard with reverse quillion that have foliate motif decorations. Finely checkered ivory grip. 16" long tapered, diamond shaped, blade that retains original engraved decorations that include an American Eagle beneath a banner inscribed E Pluribus Unum. Top of the blade with a stamped "G" denoting it was made by the Gill family who were prominent sword makers located in Birmingham, England. Original black leather scabbard with mounts and two carrying rings. Overall length 21". Condition good with Eagle head retaining most all its gilt finish. Scabbard fully intact with some old restitching of the seam. Leather now quite soft so needs support when removing from the blade. Illustrated on page 53 in Rankin's "Small Arms of the Sea Services" and on page 107 in Wilson's "Steel Canvas The art of American Arms". Ex collection: Norm Flayderman.