Outstanding single-owner collection of edged weapons, armor and militaria totals $900,000+ at Morphy's

A pre-1915 Case 63461⁄2 three-back spring whittler with old Rogers bone handles salesman’s sample more than doubled the $4,000 high estimate to realize $9,225 at Morphy’s Fine Knives: A Quality Lifetime Collection auction held February 25, 2026. The auction was packed with 956 lots of edged weapons, armor and militaria, all from one collector, and totaled more than $900,000. The collector, who lives in Pennsylvania but requested anonymity, was a regular at knife and gun shows across the US, as well as at antique shows, flea markets and auctions. Now that he’s older and approaching retirement, he decided to part ways with his 50-year collection. “The sale was a blessing,” he said. “Now other folks can enjoy these wonderful pieces of history.” The aforementioned three-back spring whittler salesman’s sample was the overall top lot of the auction at $9,225. The back of the main blade had the “Salesman’s Sample” inking, and all blades ope