South America, Argentina, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A fabulous nickel-silver and steel gaucho facon knife with 50% gold (equivalent to 12K) decorations and a matching sheath with equally fine foliate motifs. The steel single edge blade features a notched spine that tapers to a pointed tip. The nickel-silver handle grip is decorated with a scrolling foliate motif and several gold inlays, the nickel-silver sheath with matching vegetal and flower motifs with gold accents, and a clip for securing to a belt. Gauchos considered facons to be more masculine than firearms and were popular for duels of honor, protection, and carried as accessories and symbols of prestige. Size in sheath: 12.5" L x 1.5" W (31.8 cm x 3.8 cm); blade only: 6.75" L x 1.25" W (17.1 cm x 3.2 cm); gold quality: 50% (equivalent to 12K)

Provenance: private Denver, Colorado, USA collection, acquired in the 1960's

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#174273

Minor surface wear and nicks to blade. Patina and dark toning to nickel-silver areas and steel, but overall great condition. Old inventory labels on sheath. Blade is very sharp.