North American Auction Company
Live Auction

Wild West Wonders: May Collector's Auction Event

Sat, May 18, 2024 11:00AM EDT
Lot 639

Russell Green River Works Antler Handle Knife

Estimate: $300 - $500

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$50 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$25,000 $2,500
$100,000 $5,000
Featured in this lot is this Russell Green River Works knife with a beautiful beaded leather sheath and antler handle. This knife is manufactured by J. Russell & Co. from Green River Works and is a knife that would typically be traded to the Northern Plains Indians in the 19th Century. The knife shows the "Russell Green River Works" hallmark parallel with the hilt. John Russell founded his namesake cutlery circa early 1830's and by 1836 he moved the factory location to the Green River Massachusetts area. A fire delayed the factories success, but by circa 1840 with the help of Henry Clapp the factory was rebuilt and christened the "Green River Works" with all knives produced here hallmarked, "J. Russell & Co. Green River Works." The knife shows a unique clip point knife design with brass like hilt, and a Stag Antler grip. The sheath is constructed of leather and shows beautiful trade seed beadwork in colors of black, white, red, yellow, teal and blue. When the knife is secured in the sheath, a hide strap can be button around the handle to keep the knife from slipping out. The knife and sheath show good condition overall with the sheath exhibiting more wear than the knife from its age and use over the years. No signs of obvious damage is noted. The knife measures 11 15/16" L x 3 3/8" W. The sheath measures 12 7/16" L x 2 1/4" W. They have a collective weight of 12 ounces.