PRE CIVIL WAR ORNATE SILVER CAKE KNIFE 11.25" LONG - SERIUS S. DODGE silversmith For Sale

The Civil War started at 4:30am on April 12, 1861. This knife was crafted by a Silversmith from Illinois named Sven S. Dodge sometime between 1850 to 1880 before the Civil War. The standard alloy used by mid 19th century American Jewelers was coin silver (approx 90% pure) before sterling silver (.925) took over after the Civil War. This ornate silver cake knife is elaborately engraved, is 11.25 inches long, and weighs in over 113 grams. It has a serrated edge as well as a smooth edge for cutting. Depending on where you measure the thickness of the knife it has a range showing 1.5mm, 2.5mm and also 4.5mm. This knife is extremely old so it has cosmetic scratches. Please look closely at the numerous photos provided so you can see exactly what you are purchasing. This piece is a very cool part of our Country's early history- made before our country was even 100 years old. This is sure to add some pizzazz to any historian's collection.