Description:

South America, Argentina, early to mid-20th century CE. A sterling silver, gold, and steel-bladed facon knife from the Tandil manufacturer Atahualpa. This classic gaucho knife features an ornate chased floral motif in sterling silver, accented with rich gold gilt highlights ranging from approximately 46% to 64% purity (equivalent to 11K+ to 15K+). The steel blade is stamped by the maker, reading "Atahualpa / Tandil / Industria Argentina," though the mark is slightly rubbed from age and use. The mouth of the sheath bears the hallmark "PLATO 800 EN ARGENTINA" along with several additional marks, and is fitted with a side belt clip. Compact yet sharply functional, this facon embodies the distinctive style and craftsmanship of the Argentine gaucho - once carried as a tool, a symbol of prestige, and even a weapon for duels of honor and self-defense. Size in sheath: 7.75" L x 0.8" W (19.7 cm x 2 cm); blade: 4" L x 0.75" W (10.2 cm x 1.9 cm); silver quality: 92% to 93%; gold quality: 46% to 64% (equivalent to 11K+ to 15K+).

Provenance: private Denver, Colorado, USA collection, acquired in the 1960's

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)

PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.

#195806

  • Condition: Blade is sharp, handle with care. Some rubbing and softening to stamped marks on blade. Some patina and dark toning to silver, but overall excellent condition.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

July 25, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 25% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000