WW2 AUSTRALIAN V44 BOWIE KNIFE/MACHETE BY MARSDEN-STERILE
Some Australian issued V44 Knives were issued without makers marks and this example is not maker marked. This example was made by the Australian maker MARSDEN in Sydney and is identifiable by the shape of the brass crossguard and the composite handle (see page 236 of the book 'Australian and New Zealand Cutlers and Cutlery 1788-1988' which is the bible of Australian edged weapons. The Cross guard is slightly loose which is common. Composite handle is in good condition but does show signs of field use. Scabbard is also there with slight damage to the end as shown in the images.
Good example of a WW2 Australian issued V44.