Mystery marks on a Sgian Dubh

**ukrspp21** · 8th October 08, 02:52 PM

Hi,

I need some help with the identification of some mystery marks on a Sgian Dubh I have just received as a gift.

I have established that it was marked in Edinburgh, 1928 by the maker Thomas Kerr Ebbutt (mark - T.E). However there look to be distinct marks above the general hallmarks that look like quotation marks, accompanied by one that I can't make out.

http://gallery.me.com/phil.robertson...&bgcolor=black

If anyone has any ideas I would be really grateful if you could drop me a line!

Regards,
Phil

**Sionnach** · 8th October 08, 02:55 PM

I be of no help. but soon someone who can will come along. Meanwhile, welcome to XMTS from Peoria, AZ

**sathor** · 8th October 08, 03:36 PM

looks more like a serial, number 66

**Highlander31** · 8th October 08, 03:43 PM

Sorry I can't be of any help with the sgian dubh, however, I suspect one of the Scottish gentlemen on the forum will be able to enlighten you. In the mean time, welcome to the forum.

**1MUNK3** · 8th October 08, 04:50 PM

Hello Phil,
Welcome to the Clan

!!! I would love to help you on your quest. I'm a collector of Scottish weapons both antique and current. Is it possible to get a complete picture of the sgian in question ? Is there any marks on the blade itself ? Is there anything unique about the handle carvings or any part of the furniture ? Again, if possible please post a complete pic of the sgian as a whole, blade, and handle. I'll see if a possess anything similiar in my collection. I also have a few contacts that may also help in the quest. We'll see what we may be able to dig up for you.

Yours Aye,
Sean
P.S.
I know the pic you provided is probably the best you can do in relation to the markings, BUT

is there anyway to get a closer more vivid shot at that angle and also the opposite / from the other direction ? That would be really helpful. To bad you didn't live close by. Seeing it in person and be able to use certain tools I have would help in the identifying process and I'm not just talking magnifying glass. By the way have you checked it under a lens ?

**Carolina Kiltman** · 9th October 08, 04:55 AM

From the Cape Fear Valley, NC. All you have to do on this forum is to ask.

ith:

**Spc. Scott** · 9th October 08, 05:18 AM

from Ithaca, NY!
I wish I could be of help with the markings.

**MacMillan of Rathdown** · 9th October 08, 12:29 PM

I suspect the "66" mark may be a catalogue number referencing the carving on the hilt, the silver fittings, and the style of pommel (with or without stone). An overall shot would be helpful in making a more accurate determination.

**Dr Mac** · 9th October 08, 03:16 PM

from Bryan/College Station

**ukrspp21** · 10th October 08, 03:52 AM

All, thanks for the welcome! And your suggestions!

I have photographed the whole Sgian which I hope helps! I have also taken some new shots of the markings at different angles.

The measurements are:
Blade - 65mm
Blade tip to top of hilt - 137mm
Total length in scabbard - 149mm.

The only magnifying glass I have wasn't that helpful unfortunately. I have been using the macro mode on the camera to get the shots I have posted and these were the most help I identifying the rest of the markings.

If I have the opportunity I will take it to a jewelers to borrow a loupe.

Again thanks for the help and interest!

Regards,
Phil