US, c.1870–1900, John Todt San Francisco Bowie Knife & Scabbard

*US, c.1870–1900, John Todt San Francisco Bowie Knife & Scabbard*

A substantial California-style Bowie knife, manufactured in the late 19th century and bearing the ricasso stamp “J. TODT / S.F.”, identifying the maker as John Todt of San Francisco. The knife features a broad single-edged clip-point blade measuring approximately 27 cm, with an overall length of 39.6 cm, displaying the robust proportions associated with American frontier and hunting knives of the post–Gold Rush period.

The blade is cleanly forged with a pronounced clipped point and long false edge, terminating at a plain ricasso stamped with Todt’s name and location. The hilt is fitted with dark hardwood grip scales, secured by domed rivets and inset with a rectangular metal cartouche to the obverse. A straight cross-guard with rounded knop finials protects the hand, while the grip terminates in a faceted metal pommel cap.

The knife is accompanied by its original leather scabbard, decorated with geometric tooling and fitted with white metal mounts to the throat and chape, forming a complete and cohesive period ensemble.

The metal fittings display colour, tarnish, and wear consistent with German silver (nickel silver), a material commonly used by California makers of the period. These fittings have not been tested and are described accordingly.

Approx. Measurements - Blade length: 27 cm. Overall length: 39.6 cm

History Note:
John Todt was a well-known San Francisco cutler active from approximately circa 1870 through the early 20th century (c.1915). Operating during a period when California had become a centre for bespoke knife-making, Todt produced high-quality hunting and fighting knives intended for practical use rather than purely decorative purposes. He is particularly associated with California-style Bowie knives, characterised by broad clipped blades, sturdy construction, hardwood or horn grips, and fittings commonly made from German silver (nickel silver). His knives were favoured by hunters, outdoorsmen, and frontier users, and today are regarded as representative examples of West Coast American knife-making in the late 19th century. The present knife is fully consistent in form, materials, and workmanship with documented surviving examples of Todt’s work.

*Condition*
Blade retains good overall form with surface wear, polishing marks, light scratching, and age-related patination consistent with honest use. No major chips or structural damage observed. Guard and pommel show tarnish and handling wear. Grip scales are solid with no structural cracks noted, showing only minor age and handling marks. Scabbard remains complete and structurally sound, with tooling still visible; leather shows age wear and scuffing, and the metal mounts display tarnish and surface wear. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

A well-preserved and clearly marked John Todt San Francisco Bowie knife, complete with its original scabbard. An excellent example of late 19th-century American frontier knife-making.

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