Treasure Trove Auctions
Live Auction

Militaria - Arms & Armor Through the Ages

Sat, Mar 22, 2025 11:00AM EDT
Lot 1320

Will & Finck SF Cal California Bowie Knife with Leather and Silver Metal Sheath 19th Century

Estimate: $300 - $800

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$50,000 $5,000
$150,000 $10,000

 

This historic 19th-century Bowie Knife is marked with the stamp "WILL & FINCK S.F. CAL", identifying its origins in the renowned San Francisco cutlery trade. Will & Fink was a prominent San Francisco firm known for producing high-quality knives during the Gold Rush era and beyond, catering to adventurers, frontiersmen, and gamblers.


The original blade is housed in a leather sheath adorned with silver fittings, adding to its distinctive appearance. The handles during this age of Will & Finck production were often composed of walrus tusk, but this one may have been replaced at a later time. This bowie showcases a storied legacy, blending practical craftsmanship and regional history of early America. A remarkable addition for collectors of antique knives and Western Americana

Provenance: A Reputable US Auction House

Dimensions: Approx. Knife 13"Lx1.5"W Sheath 8"Lx2"W 0.8 lbs

Condition

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Very Good/Fine – Shows light to moderate wear, may have minor imperfections. A very fine example of the collectible. May also be labelled as Collector Quality.

Condition assessed using Treasure Trove Auctions’ proprietary grading scale. While we strive for accuracy, all ratings are subjective and based on our best evaluation as determined by a dedicated team of researchers, from expert appraisers to knowledgeable historians and veteran collectors. Full grading details can be found on our Authentication page for reference. For a more in-depth condition report or additional images, please contact us and we will be more than happy to oblige.

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Treasure Trove Auctions offers both in-house and third-party shipping options to accommodate a variety of items.
While we strive to handle shipping internally, items that are oversized, fragile, framed, or require specialized handling may be outsourced to a trusted third-party shipping agent. 
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Additionally, items will be insured and declared at their full purchase value, including the hammer price plus premium.

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At Treasure Trove Auctions, we understand that rare collectibles deserve more than just a standard shipping box—they deserve an experience.
That’s why we offer our exclusive White Glove Shipping Service, designed for collectors who appreciate the finer details.

With this premium shipping option, your items will arrive in elegant, custom-branded packaging, featuring high-quality materials that reflect the rarity and prestige of your purchase.
Depending on the item, we may incorporate special lighting, a hand-tied ribbon, or other bespoke touches to elevate the unboxing moment.

This service ensures your prized acquisition is securely packaged, beautifully presented, and delivered with the utmost care—because extraordinary collectibles deserve nothing less.

What You Can Expect with White Glove Shipping:
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This premium service is available for an additional charge—because your treasures deserve nothing but the best.

Choose White Glove Shipping at checkout and make your next collectible delivery one to remember.

Third-Party Shipping Option

Buyers, both domestic and international, may arrange shipping through a third-party carrier of their choice.
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International Buyers

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