Sold for $1,800

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Lot Description

US Model 1918 Mk1 Trench Knife by Au Lion

World War I

6.75" bright double-edged blade length with pronounced median ridge on both sides. 4.125" cast brass hilt. About 11.5" overall with hilt. WWI-era US Model 1918 trench knife with sand cast brass hilt with two grooves along the top edge of the grip, showing rough tooling marks and some darkened areas under guard and around knuckle points. Hilt cast with U.S. 1918 into the right side. Blade with a deeply stamped recumbent lion mark on the obverse ricasso, typical of the French-made "Au Lion" knives, thus the name applied to this pattern. Capstan nut is the correct four-sided version. Includes the correct pattern sheet iron scabbard with two prongs for attachment to the US cartridge belt's grommets. These knives were produced in France during World War I and the blades and scabbards were inspired by the French "Avenger" trench knife. These are the only brass knuckle US WWI fighting knives that might have seen service in the Great War, and today they are much less commonly encountered than their American-made LF&C brethren. A fine condition example overall.

From the Collection of George Oldenbourg

Condition Report

Fine overall. Blade mostly bright with some minor scuffing and minor surface scratches. Hilt with a rich, uncleaned patina. Correct scabbard with traces of finish, and scattered surface oxidation with some minor surface rust. Retains both belt prongs which are usually broken and missing. Scabbard with some dings and mars. Overall a fine condition example of a French-made 1918 trench knife.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Hindman staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

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