WW2 Wilkinson Sword F-S Fighting Knife 1st Pattern, sold

With solid Malaysian / Singaporean jungle commando provenance, a rare Wilkinson Sword F-S Fighting Knife with corded over grip for jungle warfare, with provenance and book from Leo Rawlings, author, Japanese POW.

This F-S Fighting knife was given to liberated POW Leo Rawlings in Malaysia / Singapore at the end of WW2 by one of his liberators. The First Pattern is rare enough, but this is made even rarer and more desirable by both the provenance and corded overgrip used in jungle warfare (the steel grip and sweaty hand palms not making a good combination). Included with the knife is a signed copy of Leo Rawlings' highly acclaimed book, And The Dawn Came Up Like Thunder, an account of being a POW. Together with a letter from Buckingham Palace thanking him for the signed copy of his book to Queen Elizabeth II, together with another related letter dated 1972. We are sure the original steel grip is in good shape under the cord over grip, but we would not suggest removing this jungle "overcoat" because it makes the knife so rare.

The 6 1/2 inch blade is well worn / aged, but the F-S and Wilkinson logos are still clear. The tip has hit something sometime. Blade firm in the hilt. The original leather and steel fittings scabbard, ears removed, is aged but fairly sound. The retaining band has separated, the popper now apart but complete. A great piece with tremendous history; yours for XXXX including the books and two letters. Further / full sized images available upon request. Please quote item reference number E73 (804).