USS Constitution Wooden Cane with Sterling Silver Knob

Early 20th century, sterling silver knob handle above an oak shaft made out of wood from the USS Constitution, with tapered ferrule; knob engraved “U.S. FRIGATE / CONSTITUTION” and marked “STERLING”; shaft with attached typed paper label that reads “Cane from Constitution given / By Mr. Blanchard during Plebe Yr. / Term Leave.”

34 1/4 in.

The USS Constitution (“Old Ironsides”) has been rebuilt and restored numerous times. Beginning in the 1830s it became common practice to use the old wood from the ship to make canes and other souvenirs. The USS Constitution Museum notes that “The reuse of this discarded material underscores the importance of Constitution as an icon to Americans of the time. The ship’s fame, and the popularity of collecting souvenirs made from its discarded parts, continues today.” (https://ussconstitutionmuseum.org/item-category/souvenirs/)

General age wear including scattered nicks, dings, and scuffs from use; the knob with expected tarnishing; the shaft with scattered small stains; label taped to shaft with associated residue; overall good estate condition.