A Tale of Two Koummyas

[avaunt]

Howdy collectors,

I just recently purchased a pair of Moroccan Koummyas for wall decoration. The silver one appears to my untrained eye to be 20th century and of tourist quality. The blade is a maximum of 2mm wide. I really know nothing about collecting these weapons so maybe you all experts can tell me a bit more about it as in a more accurate date (1940's?) and any other points of interest or observations about the construction, materials, or symbolism, that might at least make it a conversation piece.

The second dagger appears to be more solid in construction (blade is 4mm) and was sold as pre 1890's. Is that accurate? Is it likely another tourist export or something rarer that may have been used by indigenous folks? Any other comments on origin, materials, ethnicity would be greatly appreciated. Anyone recognize that star mark on the blade?

Here's a link to all the photos:

http://www.villagephotos.com/pubbrow...der_id=2063184

Cheers, Jeff