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The high-quality Nicholson “The Volunteer” Half Horse, Half Alligator Bowie Knife is a rare, historically significant knife… manufactured by J. Nicholson & Sons in Sheffield, England who produced high-end knives for the American market.
This knife speaks to the early American frontier spirit and 19th-century military imagery. The pommel features the famous American folklore motif of the “Half Horse, Half Alligator”. This phrase originated in the early 19th century, popularized by figures like Mike Fink and Davy Crockett – to describe the untamed, rugged, and boastful nature of the American backwoodsman.
The blade is engraved with the phrase “The Volunteer” centered by ornate scrolling washed in gold; THE VOLUNTEER references the volunteer military companies popular in the United States prior to and during the Civil War era.
The grip features mother-of-pearl scales (handle slabs) and coin silver pommel featuring high-relief horse/alligator and scrolled leafy devices on both sides. The quillon is made of German silver as is the vacant escutcheon.
This combination of a Sheffield-made blade, patriotic “Volunteer” markings, and a classic American frontier pommel design make it a highly sought-after piece for arms and militaria collectors.
Item Date: 1840s - 1850s
Measurement: Overall length: 12”, blade length: 7 5/8”
Price: $10,000
SKU 1333-22
For More Information, Please Contact David Hillier at 978-597-8084 or email drh@aaawt.com.