AUSTRALIAN FIGHTING KNIFE 1st AUSTRALIAN INFANTRY REGIMENT 1905
This is a very rare and unusual fighting knife. It is a professionally modified Pattern 1888 period converted to a fighting knife. Bone handle with silver top. Blade is shaped like a Bowie knife and retains nearly all of its bluing. Makers markings for MOLE and number 1100 to the base of the blade the number 3488 stamped to the cross guard.Broad arrow marked and x to the other side of the blade. The scabbard is a cut down pattern 88 scabbard with a black leather frog that has been period stabled to the scabbard. The frog has clear stampings for 11/05 and a Broad Arrow over the letter H over 1 over AIR (Australian Infantry Regiment) over the letter 9.
This is the first time that I have experienced this style of fighting knife however I spoke to a Collector that has seen one previously. The shaping of the blade indicates professional shaping as does the work on the scabbard. Truly a unique Australian fighting knife.