Rare WW2 Australia & New Zealand Fighting Knife Aluminum Grip & Scabbard

Description

Here is an original WW2 Australian and New Zealand Commando fighting knife with a field made leather scabbard.
There are several versions of this type of an Aussie knife and it is hard to find two that are completely alike. The main feature is a rough, cast aluminum checkered grip with the skull crusher at the pommel. Some of the manufacturers were AKE, NZ Cutlers, TUI but many of these knives had very light markings or were not marked at all.
During the mid-war years 1st and 2nd US Marine Divisions were stationed in Australia and New Zealand and a lot of the Marines “adopted” these unique knives and kept them until the very end of the war. The Pacific climate was very rough to the original leather scabbards so many of them ended up in a field made replacements or other knives sheaths.
One photo shows some items from my Aussie blades collection to give you an idea of the type and style. None of those other items are included nor offered for sale.
My items are not new (unless noted) and usually are very old. There are dents, dings, chips, rust and other imperfections present. Please check pictures of the actual item and ask any questions before bidding. Selling AS IS, no returns.
No international shipping, only US with tracking.