Hi Eleanor,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

This dagger is a striking example of a traditional Omani Khanjar, a highly symbolic and culturally important type of Middle Eastern weapon. The hilt has a flared, Y-shaped pommel with wide ends — a hallmark of Omani khanjars, especially those from Muscat or Nizwa. The khanjar is the national symbol of Oman, featured on currency, the national emblem, and worn at state occasions. It's typically passed down through generations and worn on formal occasions — a mark of pride, manhood, and heritage.

If this is actually gold, it would be quite valuable; my hunch, however, is that it is more likely to be a brass handle and scabbard, with a steel blade. These are fairly ubiquitous in Saudi Arabia and not particular rare, though this is a model that's nicer than most. Related Khanjars that are selling at auction have brought price ranging from $2,000-3,000.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

An Arab ceremonial presentation dagger or Khanjar
late 19th/early 20th Century
With inlaid brass handle and L-shaped dagger, gently curving steel blade.
Overall length: 9-1/2 inches
CONDITION: This appears to be in good condition.
PROVENANCE: Inherited from father who received this as a gift in Saudi Arabia in the 1970s
$ 2,000-3,000*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia