antique bronze and iron balisong type knife

[bilfig60]

http://imgur.com/a/eNUgx

I picked this knife up about ten years ago and I am still trying to find out info about it....It opens and closes like a balisong or butterfly knife, the triangular blade and bullet shaped tip are made of iron and the handles appear to be made of bronze. Overall length is 9"....Due to the intricate designs on the handles I would guess that this was made for someone of stature and importance in the region. I have been showing it at gun and knife show for the past seven years and the best response I have received is that I should donate it to a museum. Any Ideas??

 

[marcinek]

Could be wrong, but I'm thinking "tourist" piece? Possibly cast bronze handles?

 

[kaotikross]

It's a betel nut cutter. google images "betel nut knife".

 

[Armadew]

I'd say kaotikross is right. Cool piece! I'm going to keep my out for them around here.

 

[marcinek]

It's a betel nut cutter. google images "betel nut knife".

Dang! Nice call. Do you feel it is of any age?

 

[kaotikross]

You got me, I only knew that because i watched a documentary about these natives running around high on betel nuts, and I remember thinking.. "its a butterfly knife!" when a native had one similar.