Giant Kukri. Authentic and not a tourist piece?

[mercierarmory]

I have a new found friend that aquired a "sword" that he does not know much about. I published a handful of pictures on my website in hopes that someone here might be able to help out.

It's one of those giant kukris (the cerimonial bull beheading ones?) That appears to be an authentic one and not a tourist export. It has some remarkable engravings on the blade as you can see on the site. There are some coins glued to the scabbard and appears to be from Nepal.

What is everyones opinion on this? He said he paid $1000 for it, but it was appraised for $1800 (by who? I don't know). I know giving values over the net without seeing it in person isn't wise, but might this be the right ballpark or is it high? (or low).

He likes it a lot, but would possibly like to sell it to a collector that might appreciate it more than he does.

Anyways, the specs and pictures can be found at:

http://www.mercierarmory.com/nepal%2...al%20sword.htm

Thanks!

Mike