SOLD - 1952 Helsinki Olympic knife - SOLD

A beautiful souvenir from the 1952 Olympics that were held in Helsinki. Helsinki had been selected earlier to host the 1940 Summer Olympics, which were cancelled due to World War II. It is the northernmost city at which a Summer Olympic Games have been held. The Olympic Flame was lit by two Finnish heroes, runners Paavo Nurmi and Hannes Kolehmainen. Paavo Nurmi (1897-1973) was a Finnish middle-distance and long-distance runner. He was called the "Flying Finn" as he dominated distance running in the early 20th century. Nurmi set 22 official world records and at his peak, he was undefeated for 121 races. Hannes Kolehmainen was a Finnish four-time Olympic Gold medalist and a world record holder in middle- and long-distance running.

This knife is a traditional Kauhava style horsehead puukko from the most well known knife making region in Finland. The highly polished blade has the maker's name 'Iisakki Jarvenpaa' in the blood groove and 'Made in Finland' on the bevel. The handle is embossed with the Olympic logo, the city 'Helsinki' and year '1952'. Overall condition is very good. We can send more photos on request.

Galalite is a bioplastic which was developed at the end of the 19th century. It is made by immersing the naturally derived milk protein casein in formaldehyde. The name Galalite derived from the Greek words gala (milk) and lithos (stone). Producing Galalite works to some extent similarly to the making of cheese. Galalite is fireproof and can easily be pigmented. After World War II, Galalite was widely replaced by petroleum-based plastics. This is a traditional Kauhava style puukko. Handmade with care.

Product Details:

• Blade: 4.75" mirror polished Carbon Steel
• Handle: 4.75" Galalite with brass fittings
• Bolsters: Brass
• Total length of knife: 9”
• Sheath: Leather w/brass fittings


More photos on request