British, Mid-20th Century, Original "Original Bowie Knife" Presentation Bowie Knife by Sussex Armoury, with Original Leather Sheath

*British, Mid-20th Century, Original "Original Bowie Knife" Presentation Bowie Knife by Sussex Armoury, with Original Leather Sheath*

- Original large Bowie knife retailed by Sussex Armoury
- Blade etched "Original Bowie Knife"
- Ricasso retailer marked "SUSSEX ARMOURY / FOREIGN"
- Broad clip-point blade measuring 24.3cm
- Brass oval crossguard with hardwood slab grips secured by brass rivets
- Retains its original stitched and riveted brown leather sheath
- Attractive display piece in traditional American Bowie style

An original large Bowie knife produced in the traditional American pattern and retailed by Sussex Armoury, retaining its etched blade, brass-mounted hilt and original leather sheath.

The broad clip-point blade measures approximately 24.3cm in length and 4.3cm across its widest point. One face is acid etched "Original Bowie Knife" in period Gothic script, while the ricasso is retailer marked "SUSSEX ARMOURY / FOREIGN", indicating the knife was imported and sold through the well-known British retailer rather than manufactured in-house. The blade retains much of its original polished finish, displaying scattered age-related staining, light pitting and surface marks consistent with honest use and age.

The hilt is fitted with a simple oval brass crossguard and smooth hardwood slab grips secured by three brass rivets. The grip remains solid with an attractive mellow colour and grain, showing only minor handling marks accumulated over time. The full tang construction is visible along the spine and butt, reflecting the robust utilitarian design associated with traditional Bowie knives.

The knife is accompanied by what appears to be its original brown leather sheath, of riveted and stitched construction with integral belt loop. The sheath has aged attractively, retaining good colour and flexibility with honest wear from storage and use.

Sussex Armoury imported a wide variety of sporting, hunting and outdoor edged weapons during the mid-twentieth century. Knives carrying the "FOREIGN" ricasso marking were typically sourced from established European manufacturers—most commonly Solingen, Germany—and retailed in Britain under the Sussex Armoury name. Although intended as practical hunting and camp knives, these imported Bowies have become increasingly collectable in their own right, particularly when retaining their original retailer's etching and matching leather sheath.

Approximate Measurements: Overall length: 37.5cm. Blade length: 24.3cm. Blade width (maximum): 4.3cm

History Note:
The Bowie knife traces its origins to the early nineteenth century and became one of the most recognisable forms of American frontier knife following its association with James Bowie. Characterised by its broad clip-point blade and sturdy construction, the design proved equally suitable for hunting, camp work and general outdoor use. During the twentieth century, British retailers such as Sussex Armoury imported quality examples from European manufacturers, particularly Solingen, marketing them to sportsmen, collectors and outdoor enthusiasts. The "FOREIGN" ricasso stamp reflects this imported origin and was commonly used on knives sold through British retailers.

*Condition*
The blade remains structurally sound with a clear "Original Bowie Knife" etching and crisp "SUSSEX ARMOURY / FOREIGN" retailer marking to the ricasso. The polished finish displays scattered areas of age-related staining, light pitting and surface scratching, particularly towards the tip and cutting edge. The brass crossguard has developed an attractive natural patina, while the hardwood grips remain secure with only minor handling wear. The accompanying leather sheath is complete, retaining its original stitching, rivets and belt loop, showing expected creasing, light surface wear and age-related marks consistent with long-term storage and use. Please study the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

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