This wonderful object would've been used by a Shaman as an everyday/all-purpose knife. He/She would've used this to dig out medicinal roots out of the ground and cut scared plants to prepare/concoct medicine during healing sessions. Additionally, this would've be an indispensable tool/weapon -- if he/she were confronted by a dangerous animal -- during his/her solitary ventures into the forest.

The pommel is Deer/Elk H*rn ...it depicts a stylized spirit helper Bear...whose ears, eyebrows, eyes and mouth possess iridescent Abalone inlays. Interestingly, the animal's nose is a piece of Baleen, which must've been acquired via barter with their Eskimo cousins.

The equally unusual steel blade is of Russian manufacture -- it is quite old and rusty. Also, there is a maker's name (Russian letters -- most have faded away).

This is an important and rare Tlingit/Tsimshian artifact.

It is NOT a warrior's fighting dagger or a Chief's ceremonial dagger (they are more valuable). This is a Shaman's knife, it is very rare, and important in its own right. 

Heavy patina on the handle -- indicative of much handling.

It looks much better in the flesh!!!!!   It's a stunning old Northwest Coast object....and, is worth much more.

Measurements: Full length is 12 inches......width (ear to ear) 2 inches