Manufactured in 1943, this M3 fighting knife has the early maker's mark "US M3 IMPERIAL 1943" on the right side of the blade. Seen on the earliest production M3 knives, the blade marking was eliminated due to fears that the stamp might have some negative impact on the blade, leading to the more common marking on the guard. Measuring 11 3/4 inches overall, with a 6 7/8 inch spear point blade, gray phosphate finish, unmarked thumbrest counter guard, ribbed leather washer grip and a flaming bomb stamped on the pommel. With a steel reinforced brown leather sheath stamped "U.S. M6/MILSCO/1943" above a flaming bomb on the front and handwritten name "DOWD" in black ink above a number on the back.

Excellent overall, retains 98% original gray phosphate finish with sharp edges. Included sheath is also excellent.