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Up for sale is a highly collectible and historically significant World War II Italian Fascist colonial police folding lockknife. This rugged, large-scale folding knife was uniquely issued to the Polizia dell'Africa Italiana (P.A.I.), who operated in the North and East African campaigns throughout the late 1930s and 1940s.
This piece features the iconic, distinctive crowned eagle brass emblem securely inset into the dark grip handle. The unique folding design relies on a prominent external lock lever located near the crossguard to securely deploy and lock the heavy bowie-style blade.
Condition Report:
• Blade & Metalwork: Shows authentic, honest age and field wear. There is prominent dark surface oxidation, historic patina, pitting, and localized rust spotting across the carbon steel blade, locking mechanism, and metal bolsters.
• Handle: The black grips are intact with expected scuffs, surface wear, and signs of handling. The inset P.A.I. eagle badge remains clearly legible with a deep aged patina.
• Mechanism: The folding blade and manual lock lever pivot, but due to age and rust buildup, the action is stiff.
• Completeness: This listing is for the standalone knife only; the original leather or canvas sheath is not included.
