An inscribed British naval presentation dirk dated by the supplier to around 1800. The blade is 8 inches and the piece measures 11 inches, retaining about half of its original blue along with some of the gilt decoration. The grip is ivory, carved in a crude hand, and the scabbard is gilded brass with engraving. On the back of the scabbard is the presentation inscription Wm King to Wm V Neils, which ties the dirk to two named individuals.

This is a cabinet piece for a South Carolina collector of naval edged weapons of that period or of presentation pieces with a personal inscription. The named inscription gives a research thread to follow, and the surviving blue and gilt show how the blade was originally finished. Note the ivory grip when considering where and how the piece may be resold later. Condition is as the supplier describes it; no other grading is offered.

Key features

• British naval presentation dirk, circa 1800
• 8-inch blade, 11 inches overall
• About 50 percent blue, some gilt remaining
• Carved ivory grip, engraved gilded brass scabbard
• Inscribed Wm King to Wm V Neils

The dirk ships to your South Carolina address; no dealer is involved.