AMERICAN NAVAL EAGLEHEAD DIRK with the stamped "FT" cartouche denoting the maker  to be the London cutler and silversmith Francis Thurkle who's dirks were very popular amongst U.S. naval officers. Reeded ivory handle with an 8-sided ferrule. Reverse style, 5-ball, guard terminated by large round discs. Large Eaglehead pommel  with a capstan rivet. 16" double edge, straight tapered blade with full length fullers on each side. Overall length 21 1/2". Condition overall good with fittings retaining a good deal of their original gilt finish. Blade metal now in brown finish. The guard likely had a small anchor insert that is now gone. No scabbard. Botton of the guard with Thurkle's stamped cartouche and the personal collection number of Norm Flayderman. Circa 1790. Thurkle died in 1801. Illustrated on page 53 in Colonel Robert H. Rankin's book "Small Arms of the Sea Services".