An original WW2 United States V-44 Legitimus Combat and Survival Bowie knife by Collins & Co (see page 67 of Stephen’s book ‘Fighting Knives ‘ and plate 322 which illustrates a Collins & Co Legitimus No.18 mark the same as our example). Officially a survival knife the U.S. Marine Corps used them as a fighting knife against the Japanese. It is a large knife measuring 14” overall length and with polished horn green and black scales secured by 5 brass rivets. One scale has a few small chips consistent with light service wear but no cracks and are totally secure. It has a brass cross guard with rounded finials. The Bowie type blade is 9 ¼” length with drop point and twin fullers. The blade is sharp. The blade is marked with manufacturer’s mark ‘Collins & Co, Crown & trademark, Legitimus Made In US No.18’. It is accompanied by its original, correct, brown leather scabbard with rear belt loop. The scabbard has tooled decoration and matching manufacturer marks (illustrated). All leather and stitching of the scabbard are clean & intact. The price includes UK delivery. Sn 21542
£745.00