A virtual 'mint' condition British naval dirk with gilt brass mounts complete with straps and buckles by "John Salter, Sword Cutler to His Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex, Corner of the Adelphi, 75 Strand, London" circa 1823-1825.

This magnificent example shows virtually no wear (other than minor wear to the leather scabbard)and appears to have been stored away since it was made circa 1823-1825 by John Salter. Salter was one of the finest silversmiths of his generation. He was sword cutler and beltmaker to King George III from 1798 and later was appointed sword cutler and jeweller to His Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex. HISTORICAL NOTE: In 1805 he was employed by Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson on several occassions. After Nelson's death, Salter produced mouring rings which are still to this day highly desirable to collectors. After her parents death, Salter took an active interest in Horatia Nelson's welfare. In 1830, Salter became godparent to Horatia's fourth son Nelson Ward. Going back to the dirk itself, the dirk has a double edged 12" blade with an overall length of 15 1/2". The bone handle is beautifully carved and has no chips or cracks. The original and rare woven straps to supend the dirk have 7 individual gilt brass mounts each with a lion's head motif. All of the gilt work is in near mint perfect condition. REFERENCE: The National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, England, has a presentation Naval officers' sword by Salter circa 1825 which has many of the same features as the dirk.