CARIBBEAN PIRATE'S/SAILOR'S FOLDING KNIFE, 16th-17th CENTURY

16th-17th century, the period of the Spanish treasure ships. Spanish form with dramatic clipped point. Small example, just under 4 ¼” (4.22”) total length. The base with the axle pin and thumb rest. Wedge section blade with elegantly clipped point. Sailors of the period were prohibited from owning knives with points to prevent fights and mutinies. This example belonged to a pirate who was a free man among a band of equals. Sound excavated condition with good profile. Florida find purchased in a Fort Myers dive shop about 1980. With Plexiglas display easel and certificate of authenticity.