WWI U.S. Army Engineer Bolo Machete w/ Scabbard – c.1916, Tagged “Pershing" View Watchlist >
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Lot # E657
System ID # 22610872
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WWI U.S. Army Engineer Bolo Machete w/ Scabbard – c.1916, Tagged “Pershing Expedition”
This vintage U.S. Army Engineer Bolo machete dates to the early 20th century and includes a pair of aged, handwritten tags referencing General “Black Jack” Pershing’s 1916 Punitive Expedition into Mexico. The notes suggest the machete was used in the U.S. military pursuit of Pancho Villa following the raid on Columbus, New Mexico—though this claim has not been independently verified.
The bolo features a broad, 14.75-inch curved steel blade with a smooth surface showing age-appropriate staining and minor pitting. Its full wood handle is affixed with four brass rivets and joined by a black-painted collar. The leather scabbard is tooled with scroll motifs and finished with brass throat and tip reinforcements; one rivet is missing from the bottom brass fitting. A faint date is visible on the leather surface.
The included tags read:
“Rare machete made for Black Jack Pershing when U.S. forces went into Mexico chasing Pancho Villa after Columbus, New Mexico.”
Whether as a historical curiosity or collectible field tool, this machete offers strong period character and visual appeal.
Condition
Good condition overall. Blade shows moderate staining and scattered pitting consistent with age. Wooden grips are secure. Scabbard displays wear, surface marks, and tarnish on brass. One rivet is missing from the scabbard’s tip. Markings on the leather are faint and partially illegible. Labels are aged but remain attached and legible.
Dimensions
- Blade length: 14.75 inches
- Overall length: 20 inches
- Length with scabbard: 21.5 inches
