Very impressive large Bowie knife with W. Butcher Sheffield markings. William Butcher & his brother made all types of tools, knives, etc. from early 1800s. They sold the US many bowie knives with etchings during the 1850s-60s. The knife is 17 1/2" Long overall with a near 12" blade with nice large clip point. The widest part of the blade is 3". The blade has light etchings of floral & other designs on one side & has I can dig gold from quarts in ribbon in the middle of the blade. The other side of blade is plain.  Nice German silver pommel & area next to guard. The guard has acorn design ends at each end. Looks to be bone two piece grip with German silver plate which has WK scratched into it. This knife has the correct period W. Butcher  Sheffield markings at the ricasso of blade. The thin etchings of the gold rush days have a little wear but can be seen clearly. A very unique W. Butcher, Sheffield England Bowie knife