This loop dagger is used by the TIV people residing on the Niger river in Nigeria. Very typical whole steel construction with the ring hilt forged in one piece with the blade. This unusual piece is plated with thick silver layer, probably an item belonged to a high ranking person of the tribe. Spear head shaped 5 1/2 inches long blade with flat hollow ground cross section and a central rib. Filed and chiseled ring handle. Total length 9 1/2 inches. Very good condition. An old edge nick. Quite unusual and very elegant piece.