This is a rare drop point hunter made by the man himself - Jimmy Lile. This particular one features his early script signature and is signed on one side of the blade face "Hand Made By James B. Lile". This signature was only used a couple of years in the early 70's if I have my history correct. The other side of the blade states that the knife was made for the National Muzzleloader Rifle Associations Spring Shoot in 1972. This shoot takes place in Friendship Indiana. The knife is serial numbered #48 of 50. I go to Friendship each year and Jimmy used to setup there for years.
I know that cowan auction has sold one of the other 49 of these in recent days for $1150 and here is a link to the price realized from it: http://www.cowanauctions.com/auctions/item.aspx?ItemId=83423 -- The one sold by cowan had very difficult to read inscriptions. The ones on this knife are very strong and easily read.
The handle material appears to be some type of exotic wood. I don't think it is tiger maple but then again, I don't know woods very well. The knife is extremely rare and will make a wonderful addition to a collection. I believe I might have found another 8 of this set all living in a museum.
I would like $1000 obo for this knife. It is a part of my private collection and I am only parting with it because of another purchase I have made.
I know that cowan auction has sold one of the other 49 of these in recent days for $1150 and here is a link to the price realized from it: http://www.cowanauctions.com/auctions/item.aspx?ItemId=83423 -- The one sold by cowan had very difficult to read inscriptions. The ones on this knife are very strong and easily read.
The handle material appears to be some type of exotic wood. I don't think it is tiger maple but then again, I don't know woods very well. The knife is extremely rare and will make a wonderful addition to a collection. I believe I might have found another 8 of this set all living in a museum.
I would like $1000 obo for this knife. It is a part of my private collection and I am only parting with it because of another purchase I have made.