Historical information

A marlinspike is a tool used in marine rope work it is shaped in the form of a polished metal cone tapered to a rounded or flattened point, it is used in such tasks as unlaying rope for splicing or untying knots. For drawing a marline tight and using a marlinspike hitch as well as for joining toggle ropes under tension in a belaying pin splice.
Most marlin spikes are 15–30 cm long, but may reach 61 cm and more for working heavy cables and ropes. They are usually made from iron or steel, whereas fids, similar in shape and function, are formed from wood or bone. The marlinspike may be a separate tool or as an item on a pocket knife.
Sailors who become proficient at knot tying, splicing, and sewing using the marlinspike are said to have mastered marlinespike seamanship, earning them the right to be known as marlin spikes or marlinspike seamen.

Significance

A tool still very much in use today wherever a rope or cable requires joining, splicing etc the marlin spike tool design has not changed since first invented centuries ago as a sailors tool to splice and make repairs to ropes and cables on board a ship. This item gives a snapshot into the life sailors have on board sailing vessels past and present.

Physical description

Marlin Spike made of solid steel. Handle is bulbous and spike end is rounded.