WWII American Legitimus Collins & Co. Machete – Dated 1943 – Original U.S. Military Issue Description

WWII American Legitimus Collins & Co. Machete – Dated 1943 – Original U.S. Military Issue
Description

An original Second World War American Legitimus Collins & Co. military machete, or the 1250 Bushknife. clearly dated 1943 and retaining its original wartime blade markings. Measuring 37 cm (14½ inches) in blade length, this is a fine example of one of the edged tools issued to U.S. forces serving in the world’s most demanding environments during the Second World War.

Manufactured by the renowned Collins & Company of Hartford, Connecticut, and bearing the famous LEGITIMUS trademark, these machetes earned a reputation for exceptional strength, reliability and cutting performance. Collins had been producing quality edged tools since the nineteenth century, and during World War II supplied thousands of machetes for military service. The company adapted several commercial designs to meet wartime requirements, adding military markings and production dates to many contract examples.

This example is dated 1943, placing its manufacture during one of the busiest years of American wartime production. Machetes such as this accompanied U.S. Army and Marine Corps personnel throughout the Pacific Theatre, where they were indispensable for clearing jungle vegetation, constructing defensive positions, opening supply routes and general field use. They also saw service with engineers, Signal Corps units and vehicle crews wherever a robust cutting tool was required.

The blade measures 37 cm and retains its original 1943 stamp together with the Collins & Co. Legitimus markings, providing excellent authenticity and collector appeal. The machete displays honest service wear and an attractive aged patina consistent with an original wartime military tool.

An increasingly desirable piece of U.S. World War II militaria, this machete would make an excellent addition to any collection of American military equipment, edged weapons or Pacific Theatre artefacts.

Features
Original WWII American military machete
Manufactured by Legitimus Collins & Co.
Clearly dated 1943
Original wartime blade stampings
Blade length: 37 cm
Good overall condition
Superb collector’s display piece
Historical Significance

Throughout the Second World War, Collins & Company machetes became essential equipment for American troops operating in tropical and jungle environments. They were used for cutting tracks through dense vegetation, preparing camps, clearing firing positions and countless everyday engineering tasks. Their rugged construction ensured they remained dependable under the harshest combat conditions, making them one of the iconic field tools carried by Allied servicemen during the war.

Specifications
Country of Origin: United States
Manufacturer: Legitimus Collins & Co.
Date: 1943
Period: Second World War
Blade Length: 37 cm
Material: Steel blade with original grips

A genuine and highly collectable WWII American Collins & Co. military machete, offering an authentic connection to the equipment carried by U.S. servicemen during the Second World War. An excellent display item and an increasingly sought-after addition to any serious militaria collection.