Sioux 1840's Large dag knife and sheath with Native American design. RARE!

Description

The blade is 11 1/2"  Dag itself: 18 1/2”
overall.  The wood handle is secured with five iron pins. The wood, steel and leather all have a great patina.  If you look closely you can see some old faded design of teepees and a bear claw on the sheath.  Also attached is a smith forged steel strike-a-lite ring.
Great shape.  This is a f
antastic example of mid 1800’s Sioux weaponry. Large dag knives were carried as a sign of power and status but also served a utilitarian purpose. Original wood handle has good wear patterns along its length.  This is an excellent indicator of age. The handle is tight and secure. The iron blade is a repurposed buffalo lance blade, most likely cut down and re-handled in this classic dag knife style. It is all original and unrestored. Blacksmiths worked with the Indians who would come to the villages and towns for their work. Also, travelling blacksmiths would be available for work on the open plains and in small villages or outposts. It is common for a blacksmith to rework a lance blade or bowie blade, sometimes cutlery, into an Indian weapon, for trade. A unique and beautiful work of art through our history.
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