Known as a producer of swords for the Union during the Civil War, C. Roby & Co. was also known to have made Bowie knives during the conflict. While not a military-issue weapon, Union soldiers were well known for their habit of supplementing their issued gear with privately purchased weapons, and a stout Bowie like this Roby would be welcome in any close-in fight (so long as you were holding it and not the other guy). The overall length is 13 3/4 inches, with the blade measuring 9 3/8 inches long, 1 3/8 inches wide at the base of the blade, and 1/4 inch thick at the ricasso. The left ricasso is stamped "C. ROBY & CO./CHELMSFORD/MASS." with a single letter "N." next to the maker address. Smooth steel oval cross guard, ribbed and contoured hardwood grip and a solid brass eagle head pommel.

Very good overall, with scattered dark colored light to mild pitting on the blade with visible makers address, some light age related wear on the grip with a few cracks at the top, and attractive untouched golden aged patina on the eagle head.