Original 19th century Native American dag knife, featuring a steel blade and hardwood handle, prominently marked “HBC” for the Hudson’s Bay Company, one of the most influential fur-trade enterprises in North America. Knives of this type were widely produced for trade and were commonly carried and used by Native American tribes throughout the Great Lakes, Plains, and Canadian regions during the 1800s.

The knife exhibits a broad, tapered steel blade with a well-aged, untouched surface and clear period wear. The blade bears a stamped “HBC” mark, consistent with known Hudson’s Bay Company trade markings. The handle is of dark hardwood, secured with brass and iron pins in traditional fashion, showing heavy use, shrinkage, and patina consistent with age and long-term handling.

Overall length measures approximately 11 inches (see photographs with ruler for reference).

Condition:

Good original condition for its age. Blade shows surface oxidation, pitting, and wear from use. Handle remains solid with visible age cracks, pin wear, and darkened patina. No modern repairs or alterations observed. The knife remains in as-found, uncleaned condition, retaining strong visual authenticity.

Hudson’s Bay Company trade knives are highly sought after by collectors of Native American artifacts, frontier history, and early North American trade goods, and marked examples are particularly desirable due to their clear historical association.

A compelling and honest survivor from the 19th-century fur trade era, suitable for advanced private collections, institutional display, or serious students of Native American and frontier history.