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WWII ERA V-44 SURVIVAL KNIFE.

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:250.00 USD Estimated At:500.00 - 800.00 USD
WWII ERA V-44 SURVIVAL KNIFE.
This scarce knife was originally developed in 1934 for use by flying personnel in Hawaii and Panama. It was carried as part of the jungle bailout kit that was attached to the parachute harness. This knife remained standard issue until 1942. It has been reported that the Collins No. 18 was also used by US Marines in the Pacific theater attached to raider battalions. This knife measures 14 3/4" overall with a 9 3/8" bowie-style blade showing two narrow fullers. The blade is marked near the hilt "COLLINS & CO (logo) LEGITIMUS MADE IN USA NO. 18". Brass guard with globular quillons. Green horn grip held in place by five brass rivets on each side. Brown leather sheath, marked "COLLINS & CO (logo) LEGITIMUS" and "13". The sheath has tooled decoration around the edge of the front and on the suspension strap. CONDITION: blade has a light to medium gray patina. Crossguard has a rich, mellow patina with a trace of verdigris. Horn grip shows wear but no notable damage. Sheath shows moderate wear. (02-22700/BF). $500-800.