CARIBBEAN PIRATE'S/SAILOR'S FOLDING KNIFE 17TH CENTURY

17th century, the period of the Spanish treasure ships. Spanish form with dramatic clipped point. Small example, just over 4 ¼” (4.32”) total length. The base with an axle for folding with suspension ring intact. Broad wedge section blade. 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. Superior excavated condition with good profile. Florida find, purchased in a Fort Myers dive shop about 1980.