This folding dirk shows very minor signs of having been sharpened. The knife-blade has been professionally engraved to reflect the owner's sentiments - I*DFY, pronounced "I Defy".

It has a 4 and 1/2 inch spearpoint lockback blade with "I*DFY" marked on the left side.  Maker marked "DAVY & SONS / EXCHANGE/WORKS/SHEFFIELD" on the ricasso.  Davy & Sons made knives in Sheffield, England for export to the United States between 1836 and 1870.  It is designed for a well-to-do gentleman to use as a self-defense back-up weapon. 

The knife has German silver bolsters  with shell style mounts on each side of the pommel and horn grip panels with mother of pearl buttons on the right side.  The overall length is 10 inches.  The blade does not show signs of being sharpened, there are no nicks, it locks open tightly and has a good snap upon closing.  The silver engravings are worn and one of the shield-engraved end pieces has a dent.  There are no cracks and the knife is all original without repairs or exchanged pieces.

The very pleasing juxtaposition of influences in this knife is the essence of the War - the mounts are engraved with the Union eagle and shield, olive branches and the scales and sword of American justice.  The defiant engraving was added to the knife turning it from a Union to a Confederate piece.  This rare knife would make a handsome addition to any collection of antique Americana or Militaria.