#13 • Peter Mayac Scrimshaw Whale Tooth Gil Hibben Fur Rendezvous Knife c.1975

Part of June 2026 Premier Auction (live auction by Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals)

High bid $3,100.00

Status: Sold

Category: Edged Blades

A fine and unused example of the circa 1975 40th Annual Fur Rendezvous commemorative knife set, representing a remarkable collaboration among some of Alaska's most accomplished artisans. Limited to just 175 examples, this knife remains accompanied by its original sheath, locking presentation box with key, and informational pamphlet. The highlight of the piece is its spectacular sperm whale tooth handle, intricately scrimshawed by renowned King Island artist Peter Mayac (1913-1976). Among the most celebrated Alaska Native ivory carvers of the twentieth century, Mayac's work is represented in major museum collections and is prized for its exceptional draftsmanship and detailed depictions of northern life. The scrimshaw portrays a dog team traversing the Arctic alongside a young Inuit hunter seated beside an igloo with harpoon in hand, executed with remarkable precision and subtle shading. The artistry of the handle elevates the knife beyond a commemorative object into a significant work of Alaskan scrimshaw. The blade was crafted by master knifemaker Gil Hibben, widely regarded as one of the foremost knife makers of the twentieth century. Fashioned from 154-CM stainless steel, the blade bears a hallmark seal and is serial numbered 175. Fine engraving was executed by artist Bob Donettie. Accompanying the knife is its original hand-tooled black leather sheath with basketweave decoration by Bob Levine. The fitted presentation case was crafted from Alaskan cottonwood by Walter Rowell and features brass hardware, a wood-burned outline of the State of Alaska, and a gold-toned Fur Rendezvous medallion mounted to the lid. The interior is lined in rich red velvet-like fabric. All components were produced by Alaskan craftsmen, making the set a true collaborative tribute to the state's heritage. Fur Rendezvous, affectionately known as "Fur Rondy," was founded in Anchorage in 1935 and remains one of Alaska's oldest and most beloved winter festivals. Following completion of the edition, it was announced that knife number 0 would be presented to the winner of the 1975 World Championship Iditarod Sled Dog Race. Preserved in outstanding, unused condition, the knife measures approximately 9" overall with a 4.75" blade.