Item Description
Original Item. Only One Available. This fantastic Knife Crafters fighting knife belonged to Major William Holdridge Merritt, who served with the Army Air Forces during World War II. Merritt was a statistical officer in the War Department in Washington, D.C. and served in the African Middle-East Theater under Generals Dwight D. Eisenhower and George S. Patton.
The knife is in fantastic condition, with a near perfect blade that is unmarked. The leather grip is stamped LUXENBERG NEW YORK. There is a tiny bit of verdigris under the grip. The sheath is also in impeccable condition. The knife’s sheath is very clearly stamped on the back WM. H. MERRITT / MAJ., AC O-649824. This names the knife to Major William H. Merritt.
William Holdridge Merritt was born on November 26th, 1916, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, moving to Lima, Ohio later in life. He graduated from Miami University & Harvard Business College in Boston. He served during World War II in the U.S. Army Air Forces, being promoted to Major. He served as a statistical officer in the African-Middle East Theater under both General Dwight D. Eisenhower and George S. Patton. Merritt lived a long full life after his service, serving as President of Lima Lumber as well as several other lumber companies before his death on February 20th, 2006, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
Knives of this pattern were produced from old sword blades, with three knives typically being manufactured from a single sword blade. The handles were made of hollow steel and covered in leather. Most of the scabbards are of the same basic pattern, with a unique, three-piece construction.
Overall, this is a very attractive World War II era fighting knife that is highly desirable. No collection of World War II militaria is complete without at least a small selection of fighting knives. These knives were valued at $700 to $800 each 10 years ago, and rougher ones fetch prices in that range today and often higher, especially at auction. This fine Knife Crafters fighting knife is offered at the near decade-old price, which is a good value and worth every penny.
Comes more than ready for further research and display.
Approx. Dimensions:
Blade length: 7 ¼”
Blade Style: Clip Point
Overall length: 12 ½”
Crossguard: 2 1/2”
Scabbard length: 14 ⅞"
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
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