Guidance

Ronreiter · Apr 16, 2017

A friend asked if I could help determining what to so with an artifact she has had in her possesion for many years and finally wants to know what to do with it.
Looking for a place to start. Only information I have on it is that it was found in the Gulf about 30 miles off of Tampa Bay. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
I am hoping that I have attached an image to this post.

Ron Reiter

Terry Soloman · Apr 16, 2017

No photo.

AlienLifeForm · Apr 16, 2017

Nicest one I have ever seen. Maybe, if I could see it.

kingskid1611 · Apr 16, 2017

Wow, Now that is a beauty.....I would almost have to say put it back where you found it and forget about it......

Ronreiter · Apr 17, 2017

Figured out how to attach files, I think.

Attached.

Ronreiter said:
A friend asked if I could help determining what to so with an artifact she has had in her possesion for many years and finally wants to know what to do with it.
Looking for a place to start. Only information I have on it is that it was found in the Gulf about 30 miles off of Tampa Bay. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
I am hoping that I have attached an image to this post.

Ron Reiter

Tpmetal · Apr 17, 2017

looks like raphael was battling splinter and lost his sai. In all seriousness though, Really interesting piece. Im thinking contacting a museum or someone would be beneficial to helping you out.

TerryC · Apr 17, 2017

WOW! There are professional cleaning techniques that can truly turn that piece into a collector's item. Please... PROFFESIONAL restoration only! TTC

Ronreiter · Apr 17, 2017

Thank you. Maritime museum? Definately don't remove the crust right?
Ron

Tpmetal said:
looks like raphael was battling splinter and lost his sai. In all seriousness though, Really interesting piece. Im thinking contacting a museum or someone would be beneficial to helping you out.

against the wind · Apr 17, 2017

Be gentle with that,,
The only problem with seeking help from museums,
especially in Florida, is that they are going to want to know how it came to be in your possesion or where it was found. If it is the real deal, , you may lose it to state authorities.

Charlie P. (NY) · Apr 17, 2017

To my untrained eye that looks like it could be a 17th century main gauche. A parrying dagger used in the weak hand as a companion to a rapier. Definitely worth getting to a proper expert in marine artifacts.

Honest Samuel · Apr 17, 2017

Check with local dealers who deal with this type of item and good luck.

Ronreiter · Apr 18, 2017

Thanks much for that Info. Would have never thought of that. I have no idea of where it was found only 30 miles off of Tampa Bay. Do you think electrolosis would be effective?
Ron

against the wind said:
Be gentle with that,,
The only problem with seeking help from museums,
especially in Florida, is that they are going to want to know how it came to be in your possesion or where it was found. If it is the real deal, , you may lose it to state authorities.