SHEATH. Hicks riflemen knives are published in early texts starting in 1956 as the rarest and earliest American martial military Bowie knives, thought made in the 1840s. Today we know that these well made bowies were made by Cleveland Ohio tool maker A. G. Hicks in 1861. Photographs of soldiers wearing knives are known as identified Confederate used examples. An interesting article published in 2017 Antique Bowie Knife Collector's Journal eludes that the enterprising Mr. Hicks was possibly attempting to sell his knives in the South before they were confiscated and sent to the governor of Indiana in July of 1861. Regardless, this is a very nice example with the rarely seen original sheath with belt loop. 14.25" overall, 9.5" clip point blade, unique cast brass crossguard, screwed brass straps on wood grip. Retard leather scabbard has brass tip and brass reinforcement at throat. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: copy of 2017 ABKA article on Hicks; copy of November 2015 Knife Magazine article by Mark Zalesky "AG HICKS – 64 YEAR OLD MYSTERY SOLVED". CONDITION: very good overall, blade is gray with sharpening & tool marks. One dent on side of handle from strong blow into the wood. The 14 iron screws that hold brass trim & iron pommel have matching grey iron patina to blade. Leather sheath body is sound & complete, crazing to tarred surfaces. Belt loop is almost detached and now supported by cardboard backing so it won't tear. PROVENANCE: William "Bill" Myers. (02-21295/JS). $5,000-6,000.