Active circa 1850, Thomas Short Jr. was a Sheffield cutler noted for his high quality output. Measuring 14 1/2 inches overall. The blade measures 9 1/8 inches with a spear tip, 4 1/8 inch false edge, "For Australia" in an etched banner on the left side, and "THOs SHORT JUNr/SHEFFIELD" in a cartouche on the left ricasso. The hilt is cast brass construction with a one-piece cross guard and a two piece contoured grip. Both sides of the grip are covered with an elaborately detailed scene of a heraldic-style dolphin diving into a marshland with a fish in its jaws. With a maroon leather sheath decorated with tooled scroll and dolphin motifs and fitted with a silver-plated throat and tip.

Good. The blade shows a light gray patina overall with some minor dings on the true and false edges near the tip, scattered spotting and pitting, and strong etching. The brass components show a well-aged color with a few light dents. Sheath is fair with some cracks tears and scuffs.