Fancy Table Knife 1700's

[Full Metal Digger]

Hello Diggers,
Here is a little table knife that one of my friends found while I was in Germany. It was all corroded up and he was going to toss it! I looked at it and decided it was worth saving and boy, am I glad I did! I asked him if I could have it and he said sure. The first picture is after I removed the encrustation off the handle, but it still needed electrolysis. The copper scales are embossed with numerous lions with rings in their mouths. If you look closely at the blade, you can see a copper inlay in the steel. That is the maker's mark! That was not visible until after I did the electrolysis. Very fancy stuff for the 1700's! I'm very happy to have this in my collection or as Tony calls it, my little museum! LOL!!

[Tony Two-Cent]

You did a wonderful job of restoring it, Dave! What a beautiful piece of tableware!

It's interesting how finds like this are perceived differently in various parts of the world. Here in the midwest USA a find from the 1700s, ANY find from the 1700s, would be a major highlight. Over there it's "modern junk".

[OxShoeDrew]

Have you found the maker from the maker's mark? I'm so glad you both had such a great time!

[Digger_O'Dell]

Beautiful restoration job. From the start it did look like junk-but now I'm guessing your friend is regretting giving it away?

[Lodge Scent]

Very nice! I'd be tempted to eat with it at least once.

[BTV Digger]

Great save Dave! What a wonderful little piece - and now it's gone home with you.

John