South African police assegai spear
 

54" overall. Neither the point, nor the blade are sharp. I wonder if these were used more for intimidation than actually sticking someone?

The butt end (with a solid iron cap) would be a very good club. I would think that one of these in skilled stick fighting hands would be formidable.

Shows number "2241" marking. Arsenal? Police?

I have a very similar spear. This one measures 58 inches overall, has the same thumb grove in the butt and metal end cap held on with a screw. I am told she is a rare pre-1914 Zulu “Nonquai” (Natal native Police) government issue spear. How rare are these?

http://i340.photobucket.com/albums/o...e/100_9065.jpg

From the length of this spear, I think it is the military version.

Here is a picture of a South African guarding airplanes in January 1943.