Philippine Dagger

[Victrix]

Originally Posted by Bill M

I had planned to donate to a museum in the PI, but I was in contact with a putri in the government. But she suggested that if I did donate it to a museum, it would not wind up in a museum where people could enjoy it, but it would get into the wrong hands and it would be hidden in a private collection.

So I have a friend at the Smithsonian who has a very powerful vault for safekeeping, not even in my state. I had threats that it must be returned to the PI or I would be harmed.

One solution could be to sell the item to a private foundation in PI which agrees to keep it on public display for the benefit of society. Many years ago when I was visiting Manila I remember Ayala Museum in Makati, which is run by the private Ayala Foundation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayala_Museum. It showcases PI history and culture with several floors of well organized exhibits. I think the Ayala Museum might take good care of the item. Incidentally I also remember visiting the groundfloor restauarant for lunch and eating pork ceviche which was out of this world.

[Will M]

The majority of historical items are in private hands. No guarantee this dagger would be displayed as many museums have up to 90% of their stock in long term preservation. What may seem valuable and historical to us may not to a museum curator. Weapons have taken a back seat as far as displays and less interesting items (to us) are displayed.
I would keep it and enjoy it or sell it at a good specialized auction to realize its full price potential.
As someone said here that this sort of thing will exit the rear museum door.
Even with a paper showing you gifted the item many of them disappear over time and not compensation or reason is ever given.

[Pinoy Blade Hunter]

exquisite piece. would you mind if i may ask for some measurements? thank you