Hi Brian,
Most attractive dagger! and you profoundly underestimate yourself my friend.
We all have made many misteakes
in our collecting adventures, and over the years you have learned along with the rest of us. Clearly you are becoming more discerning, and as always bold in your acquisitions.
I think it is important to note here that the term 'composite' or remounted is not necessarily a signal of doom in the integrity of a weapon. Edged weapons were often, if not even typically, refurbished in thier working lives, some through many generations. Heirloom blades as well were often mounted in later style hilts in league with current fashion or sometimes even military regulation style hilts. It was not at all uncommon for military officers to mount heirloom or 'trophy' blades in thier swords. It is difficult to find rapiers that have not been refurbished in thier working lives thus becoming 'composite'.
The stiletto was an antiquated weapon by the time which seems most likely for this dagger, but remained desirable in the sense of classical heritage and tradition for members of the gentry and individuals of significant status. The quality and neoclassic styling suggests mid 18th century to latter, as seen by the acanthus like pommel and bolster; similated entwined turks head in silver wire with gadrooned silver bands over ivory.
The blade seems 18th century and the style of engraving and motif aligns with similar on 18th century smallsword and court type swords as well as its general form, as noted by Berber.
Much as in the manner of many dirks and certainly other edged weapons, blades were typically 'recycled' if broken or damaged into these smaller weapons, or as mentioned may have been refurbished from heirloom blades.
That may well be the case here, regardless, it is a most attractive item!
Well done Brian,
All the best,
Jim