Knowles & Ladd "Crete" Coin Pickle Knife

With its square shoulders, lined edges and decorative element set midway on the handle, "Crete" is similar to Gorham's "Pompeii" of the same mid to late 1860's period, and to Gorham's less embellished "Rosette" of the same era. Crete employs a leaf motif which in fact dominates the sense of the design. It is double die struck, meaning the design appears on the backside as well as well as the front, and in this case the pattern is extended onto the heel of the blade. This example is a 7" long, .8 T. oz., coin silver pickle knife. The blade is a shape that Knowles & Ladd employed on several patterns, and it is especially attractive. it has scalloped edges and detailed bright cut engraving. The front of the handle has an "MS" script monogram. The piece is in flawless condition, showing no polishing wear, and having a blade that is free of bends, nicks, or burrs. Marks are "Coin" and the number "1."