WARENSKI ART DAGGER
SOLD - SOLD - SOLD
Sometimes I come across a really gorgeous Buster Warenski art dagger that's just too good to pass up. Buster was once described by the late, great Bob Loveless as "the greatest knifemaker that ever lived".
Collectors look all their lives for a high-end art dagger by Buster, but such pieces seldom come to market. The very few that do are always embellished. This is one of only two such unembellished Buster Warenski art daggers I've ever seen, of the type collectors have the greatest interest in, namely art daggers with the following characteristics:
1) Stone or carved handle always a plus - this one being of lapis lazuli, fluted with gold wire
2) Hot-blued fittings (THIS IS KEY, MUCH MORE sought after than non-blued - cannot emphasize this enough)
3) A guard shape to die for ("tulips" here) with "turban" pommel - the "right" guards are key - they always attract the most interest - this one somewhere near the top of the heap. An ugly guard and/or pommel not only reduces the value of a Warenski, but also limits it's saleability. Remember, every maker has produced something that, in hindsight, he would gladly re-think.
4) Attractive blade shape - a must, as with this piece
5) Over 12" overall length (13 1/2" overall here, with 8" blade of 440-C) - the longer the better
6) Immaculate condition, post 1990 (circa 2001 here and the definition of IMMACULATE)
NOTE: If this had the typical Warenski embellishment, the increase in pricing would be at least $15,000 more.
It took me a year to realize I wouldn't keep this piece - and finally decided to part with it. A year later, the collector who had purchased it bought a very high-end Warenski from me and I took this one back in trade - I still loved it. I've retained it ever since (for the last year), vascillating back and forth as to whether or not to keep it in the Warenski Collection.
It takes me a while to figure it out, because I always want to keep every one of his most beautiful daggers. Sadly, the Buster Warenski era ended in 2005 - it's now become almost impossible to find the truly high-end pieces for which he is so famous, many of which can now command $50,000 and more. A highly engaged collector or dealer should see the underlying investment opportunity this gorgeous piece could easily represent, particularly one so fine as this that's been held in an unengraved state.
$XX,XXX shipped (CONUS). Cashier's check required of US buyers, personal or business check if I know you, otherwise wire transfer. International sales require advance approval from seller with cash equivalents required. International express shipping at buyer expense.
I'll be happy to answer any questions you might have, but please send them via private message, please. The first unequivocal "I'll take it" gets it.
Will consider other (Warenski, Erickson, Loerchner, etc) investment-grade pieces for trade, as well. For sale at this price only until Thanksgiving.
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