Spanish-American War "Trench Art" Letter Opener from USS Oregon 1898

This is a "trench art" letter opener from the Spanish American War whose blade is imprinted with the words 1898 U.S.S. OREGON. The battleship U.S.S. Oregon sailed for battle on the day after the U.S.S. Maine exploded in Havana, and straightaway made a record-setting voyage to report for duty. The ornately twisted handle bears an anchor, which may have been a sweetheart piece.

Circa 1898.

7-1/8" length and 1-1/2" width (at handle).

Brass and nickel-plated brass.

This is from a United States Navy collection which we will be listing more of over the next few months. VCEX04 LAAEX7/10 SAAEX1/11

8- (Very Fine-Excellent): Opener shows light wear and some spots of tarnish.

As with all my artifacts, this piece is guaranteed to be original, as described.