can you decipher the lettering on a handguard?

[GatorBoy]

I give... I've tried and tried. This came from a site with early Spanish and Second Seminole War occupation in Florida. The portion that I blew up is just to the left of the raised lettering. it appears to say"paid" with small numbers to the right and a signature below as if tax was paid on it.

 

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[civil_war22]

Geez what is that a shipwreck knife

 

[GatorBoy]

Well... look at this.







That's the handguard, section of blade and handle the way it was found. It soaked for a long time...and required alot of carful cleaning.

 

[civil_war22]

Not too bad though. Like the handle

 

[GatorBoy]

I belive there was a brass pommel on the bottom as well as a band up the sides.

 

[CRUSADER]

I can't tell you want the stamped marks mean but it looks 18th C to me, but I'm no good with knifes (don't find many)

 

[GatorBoy]

Thank you for checking it out.

 

[GatorBoy]

It took me a few days to figure out the lettering is raised. I was looking at the impressions(negative surface) then I realized it is large raised lettering on the (positive) surface of the brass.

 

[CRUSADER]

It took me a few days to figure out the lettering is raised. I was looking at the impressions(negative surface) then I realized it is large raised lettering on the (positive) surface of the brass.

OK, so part of the mould & not added after.

 

[GatorBoy]

Something like this... yup..part of mold.

 

[CRUSADER]

OK, its more likely to be the foundry mark, like a makers mark, but it would take someone experienced in these to work it out.

 

[GatorBoy]

My thoughts exactly. That however is not me.

 

[CRUSADER]

There are lots of clues, I'm sure the wooden handle is dateable. Also, it maybe an old mark used to supply the Military, no idea, but I'm sure it can be narrowed down, specially to country of manufacture.

Chime in anyone?

 

[kuger]

Cant help ya on what it says but.................
Antietam Relic Model 1855 Bayonet for Colt Revolving Rifle and Brazilian Naval Rifle

 

[GatorBoy]

Thank you. That is almost certainly the same style of manufacture. Differences in the material of the handle and guard could have to do with the date it was made and particular model. That is a great starting point. Thank you.