Shark tooth weapon id

[daemondamian]

Hi folks, [photos attached! ]
recently an email discussion about sharks led to a shark tooth 'sword' I have which my friend suggested could be actually be of Pacific Islands native origin.

I can't remember exactly but I believe we found the sword somewhere
in the house after we moved in. The previous owner actually lived here with
her husband since the house was built about 50 years ago and she collected
lots of rocks [alot of which were also left here] and possibly travelled.

Anyway I've read through old threads here, and googled. I think roughly based on what I've read that it could be of micronesian origin though at the same I keep wondering if it's just a tourists souveneir.

I came across several listings here is one that has ended:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ANTIQUE-OCEANIC-...QQcmdZViewItem

It is quite similar in several ways, particularly the weaving on the handle, the binding, construction and arrangement [teeth are 'drilled' placed in between split wood/bamboo and then tied/bound to the main piece of wood]

Some of the binding has come undone- it looks like it could be black hair. There are three teeth missing and the weaving is unravelling on the base [should I wrap some plasticwrap around it to stop it from further deteriation?].



Anyway my photos are attached, and I'd really apreciate it if anyone could help id it, and of course if anyone wants to email me privately re 'value' [if it has any] that would be great also!

Regards
Damian.