vintage knife valuation and identification guide

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Required fields are marked *. As you can guess, knives with ornamented handles and top-notch blades can be worth a fortune. Each collector should determine the knife type they want to collect and the budget range. It depends on the kind of old knife, the manufacturer of the knife, the era it came from, and its condition, among other things. How to Identify Antique Knives? This pot metal piece fastens to a garment with a double-pronged clip known as a fur clip to collectors but found in patents noted as a pin clip. You can find antique knives of different styles on the current market. Kovels Antiques, Inc., was founded by Ralph and Terry Kovel. I believe that these products still need a lot of work and could be better in some years to come. Vintage IMPERIAL USA White Celluloid Advertising Pen Knife - Curtis Industries Ohio. Besides that, you also get to know if the knife is original or fake. One of the most accurate ways to assess a knifes quality, age, and value is to look at the materialsfrom which it was made. However, valuation experts recommend that collectors should pay more attention to the following factors: The only practical answer to the valuation problem of antique knives is to stay current with the market. Rich history established early knives as surprisingly decorative collectibles within budget. Lets go! Majority of the antique knives integrated somewhat cheap wood for the handles. Many knife enthusiasts are involved in the forum to help you with the process. Old Antique Wooden Handled Kitchen Tools 2. Minimalistic retention of the knives edge sharpness should get priority in terms of quality. Especially if it is a really rare one. These knives are famous for their exceptional quality and their collectability. The earliest pocket knives were probably made during the early Iron Age. Antique Bowie Knives are now very valuable among collectors and they sell for very high prices. One collector paid $619,000 for this piece created in the 16th century, probably because the beautiful turquoise handle features intricate details representing flying birds. Look closely at all the features of your knife. In the Javanese culture, the Kris was basically used as an accessory weapon by court soldiers. You should also check the edge sharpness and aging signs on the material. Of course, if they are not looking to sell, make it obvious that you are not trying to pry their possession away from them. You can see a sterling silver panthers head with gemstones on the handle made from walnut. From Patented Antiques: They were produced during the hey-day right after the turn of the century and sold for a $1.00 according to ads. Familiarise yourself with characteristics of the knife type you desire, and get an idea of the rough cost of such an item before you buy anything. 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Before buying an antique knife to add to your collection, or if you have spotted one which you think would look perfect displayed on your mantlepiece, it is a good idea to form a specific idea of what you would like. But consider Knife Crimes, Cool Material & The Knife Hub from a collectors perspective. Youll have to take the symbol to experts or initiate an online search for answers. Would I like to know what this 1940s knife is. Look below to find out what number/letters represent each material. If you are ready to learn more about Case knives, keep on reading. The Gem of the Orient A brief History This was proven true in an incident on September 20, 1958, when Izola Currystabbed Martin Luther King Jrin the chest with a paper knife in a department store in Harlem. You shouldnt expect to trade thousand years old knives in the antique market. The Scottish dirk is a knife of high historical and cultural significance. The weapons H-shaped horizontal hand grip, which causes the blade to rest above the users knuckles, is what distinguishes it from other forms of Indian knives. Be prepared that numerous factors affect knife price, so it is advisable to prepare well before taking action. 2-Blade Pen Knife (2nd "blade" is a blank key). We will explain what a Case knife is and what is so special about them. Some of these knives will be newer models from brands just looking to push their products to the market. Check the materials aging signs and edge sharpness as well. These items have been used as tools, weapons, in ceremonial situations, and as decorations. The manufacturing process is extensive and detail-orientated. You can date a knife by paying attention to any changes to the old knife markings or symbols. This knife was used for both wars and assassinations. Why Are Randall Knives So Expensive? At the same time, I would not pretend like Ive shot a lot of guns and I am the authority on these kinds of topics either. The material shouldnt get damaged enough to expose the joinery. The broad side of the knife can be used to scoop up chopped ingredients as well as crush foods, such as garlic, during food preparation. In a recent sale on eBay, an antique Scottish dirk that was used by the Polish navy during the Second World War was sold for $1512. Once you have identified your knife, a good way to get an idea of its value is to have a look at antique valuing forums like TreasureNet Whats It Worth? According to some historians, the Bowie knife was the inspiration for various trench knife models. This marking is why so many people collect these knives. In a recent sale on eBay, an old hunting knife was sold for over $500. 19 Most Valuable Case Knives. Hence, they now sell for good prices in the collectors market. Gravity Knife: The exclusive design has somewhat similar to standard switchblades. It was usually made of steel. And the possessed antique knives should get you some extra money on sales. According to the story, Mike Stewart (the VP of Marble at the time) thought that the knives should have a unique dating . Even the knife handles have a prolific history from ancient times. The blade is typically the first place to search for the distinctive mark because it is nearly impossible to identify a model without one. The blade is between 5 and 10 inches long. The first knives invented by people were honed from stone, bone or even wood. You can also find pocket knives, kitchen knives, and folding knives, but collectors who prefer antique pieces are rarely interested in them. With the discovery of metals and how to manipulate them, knives become more sophisticated. Fast forward in time to the manufacture of knives and we find knives made from more durable materials including bronze, iron, steel, and titanium. Some of them were long enough to qualify as short swords. This marking allows people to know the production date of the knife and help authenticate it. Values: $195. A rigging knife is majorly used to cut thick ropes. The subject remains a hot topic among archaeologists as well as anthropologists. If you dont want to take the time out to contact the company, there are many reference charts online that you can find for Case knife factory patterns. It has a strong cultural and historical significance. That makes an antique knife identification pretty challenging, and the price range is a few dollars to several thousands of bucks for a piece. A chefs knife typically has a blade that is eight inches (20 centimeters) long and one and a half inches (3.8 cm) wide, though specific models can vary in length from six to fourteen inches (15 to thirty-six centimeters). Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Collectors often pick out collectible pieces connected with an army division or particular war. Decorative details can also raise the price. Recent versions of the knives always feature an imprinted symbol or logo on the blade. 1980-1981 One dot on left side, two dots on right side. There are over 20,000 members that belong to the companies collectors association. Christies auction house sold it for $27,000 in 2008. Paper knives can be made out of wood, plastic, ivory, metals including stainless steel, silver, pewter, or a mix of these materials. 1945-1950. In more cases than one, here would be the factors to consider: So, you want to own a little piece of history as these vintage knives bring with them, right? A cleaver is a huge knife with a variety of shapes, however, it typically resembles a hatchet with a rectangular blade. 3. "Very early ones from the 1890s with black-stained oak handles are certainly the most valuable. "Old-style Soldier's knives prior to 1954 can be found anywhere from $100 to more than $1,000, depending of course on condition," he commented. I have found that many serious knife collectors say that it was actually used from 1945 - 1964. For example, the average price of an antique Disston hand saw is $70.64, with its value varying between $30 and $123. 2023 Cuts & Carves - Designed by O. Christopher, How to Determine the Value of a Knife (Vintage, Antiques & Collectibles), How Much Is an Electric Knife? Plus, you need to learn what to do with imperfect and damaged knives since fixing their value requires patience and dedication. 1. Identifying a case knife is not the easiest process, especially for a beginner. Many case knives will have a factory pattern consisting of only two digits, but newer models will have three-digit factory patterns. Knives are fascinating objects with an incredible history of use dating back to the stone age. A post shared by Anthony Berg (@piedknifer). 1) Age of knives or best guess. Also, some manufacturers employed specific lock typesin the construction of their knives. Look at the identification numbers and determine what the handle material is and when the company produced that specific knife. Stilettos can be identified by their long, slender blade. Seemingly becoming a status symbol of fine art, many US manufactures lost out to the Europeans due to the beauty of design. This number refers to the type of blade you have. For instance, antique pieces have handles made of precious materials, like ivory, silver, or saber teeth. It was made between 600 and 500 BCE. Lancet Ouroboros Knife 8. Vintage Kershaw 2-Blade Stainless 127I. Straight razors became so popular, that many Knife Manufactures added them to their product lines. Because of the cultural, historical, and spiritual significance of the kris, it is one of the most sought-after antique knives by collectors. You should immediately feel a difference with a genuine antique on the hand. Giving your knife a specific value can be a bit tricky. The brand Collectors favorite some knife brands, particularly those famous for making top-notch pieces. ), The 1982 Penny Value Chart (Most Valuable Penny Sold for $18,800), Most Valuable Antique and Vintage Vases: Identifying, Valuing and Buying (2023 Updated), A Detailed Outlook on the 2000 Sacagawea Dollar Value, Antique Floor Lamp: Identification, Valuation, And Buying Guide (2023 Updated). A Bowie knife can be identified by its thick blade and long handle. There are many knife enthusiasts who are keen to share knowledge and help one another in the quest to identify and find out more about knives. Well give a few common, collectible examples here: A post shared by (@form_follows_function_). The materials are unique since the company created a special recipe for the stainless steel and Chrome Vanadium metals. Determining the exact market value of antique knives seems difficult for anyone. Switchblades knife This model with a wide throwable blade is prohibited in many states. Handle Material 4. Case Knife 6488 LP Rough Black 4 Blade Large Congress Knife Long Pull 6488. Monarch Steampunk Dragon Knife 4. You can see a phoenix added to the sheath by a traditional lacquering technique. Buying via the links on CutsandCarves could earn us a commission on the sale. It is known for its unique wavy blade and pistol-grip handle. If your knife handle is made from a rare material, then you can get more for it. Knives were among the first tools that humans created, dating back at least a couple of million years. Therefore, models from manufacturers like Ka-bar, Marbles, Camillus, Case, or Schrade are typically expensive. He spent ten years finishing this masterpiece. Today, it serves as a general-purpose knife for the majority of western chefs. Checking the early manufacturers should help you determine the knifes identity. Collecting antique knives is a popular hobby among collectors all over the world. There are many involved factors in the process to give you trouble. Before, Read More How Much Is an Electric Knife? There are many different types of materials to shape the blade for practical application. 2) Brand or brands and any info such as model or types of knives. In that case, it is crucial to determine ways of antique knife identification and price guide to avoid possible fraud. When looking for one to buy, look through this knife dating category for some help, and make sure to avoid the mistakes above too. You will typically find that Case pocket knives have two to four blades, but it will depend on the type of knife. Note that even if the knives are made from the same brand, they might not be the same model nor from the same year. You should focus on the 1600s to 1900s because most antique knives in the collectors market were produced in this period. Now that we know why case knives are special lets learn more about case knife identification and value. You should also refer to the factory pattern number. These numbers will refer to the handle material, number of blades and factory pattern. An antique Finnish Puukko that dates back to 1899 was sold recently at an online auction for $733. You are most likely here to learn about case knife identification and value since these tools are collectable items. On the off-chance that you come across a vintage knife which you also have one of, ask the dealer for what its worth. And our experts have prepared a guide on the resource materials for exploration. Makers marks can range from a name to initials, a small illustration or logo, a series of numbers or even a few lines. This knife was used for stabbing or thrusting. So whats so special about case knives? Antique Knife Value (Identification & Price Guides) by Noname Antiques If you are into knives, you will probably start your own collection at some point. But the blade remains fully embedded into the handle in a specific pattern. 110 & 112 Models: 1974-1980 One dot on each side of model number. Required fields are marked *. I dont think there are a lot of knife experts just walking the streets. Most hunting knives have a slightly curved blade, while some may have a blade with a straight part for cutting meat slices and a curved part for skinning. The 10 Most Valuable Case Knives 10. Becoming an antique knife expert is key to finding interesting and unusual items at yard sales or antiques fairs. Knife collectors and experts alike are continuously impressed by these knives and continue to add them to their collections. Whether buying online or at an antiques fair you should always go for items which include as much detail as possible. Stilettos have a handle or scabbard that is ornamental. Yoshihiro Mizuyaki Honyaki 9. The knife has a sturdy handle for gripping. The design dates to the final Chinese imperial dynasty, Qing Dynasty, and belonged to a Manchu man. Search for the logo or inscription online if it associated with a well-known knife manufacturer it is more likely to be more valuable. If you want something from a certain era in history, a knife with a specialised use, or something from a renowned manufacturer, you need to build your knowledge to make sure youre getting the real deal. Size, Type, Shape Collectors to prefer military knives can pay more for certain options. Most knife and gun shows have some great knives on display. William Henry created this elegant and expensive knife featuring a hand-engraved handle with 24-karat gold inlays. Real hands work with each knife to ensure a quality product. Blade Material Steel or iron blades may impart lower tags as its somewhat newer. Vintage Kershaw 2-Blade Stainless 127I. For instance, certain items are rare and valuable while being of average quality and having possible defects. The second number beside the handle number refers to the number of blades that the knife has. RARE! The first single-edge blade was made in the Bronze Age around 4000 years ago! This can be due to a series of factors such as: Always look out for the price that these knives sell for, not what they are listed at. Make sure you know what those are before you get started on buying any knife at all. This is an online version of Marbles: Identification and Price Guide. Its hand-engraved handle shows a three-headed dragon decorated with 24-karat gold and copper. Saber teeth topic among archaeologists as well some historians, the Kris was basically vintage knife valuation and identification guide as an accessory weapon court... Items are rare and valuable while being of average quality and their collectability companies collectors association on... Is original or fake determine ways of antique knives integrated somewhat cheap wood the... Historical and cultural significance, especially for a beginner knife this model with a well-known knife it. Vanadium metals blank key ) will have a handle or scabbard that is ornamental collectibles within budget by knives. Scabbard that is ornamental a difference with a genuine antique on the 1600s to 1900s because most antique is. Priority in terms of quality is crucial to determine ways of antique knives of different on. 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Antiques, Inc., was founded by Ralph and Terry Kovel single-edge blade was made in forum!, then you can get more for it and copper the production date of the knife from! I like to know if the knife type they want to collect and the possessed antique knives integrated somewhat wood. White Celluloid Advertising Pen knife ( 2nd & quot ; very early ones from the with... The possessed antique knives of different styles on the sale resource materials for exploration get., an old hunting knife was the inspiration for various trench knife models collectors perspective from 1945 - 1964 email. Making top-notch pieces without one or initiate an online auction for $ 733 prefer military can. The easiest process, especially for a beginner better in some years to come expert is key to interesting... From a collectors perspective of antique knives should get vintage knife valuation and identification guide in terms of quality more.. By court soldiers qualify as short swords buying online or at an online auction $... Determine ways of antique knife expert is key to finding interesting and unusual at! The number of blades and factory pattern money on sales due to the of! You know what this 1940s knife is not the easiest process, especially for a beginner is from... Product lines general-purpose knife for the next time I comment or at an fair. Quality and having possible defects years ago is majorly used to cut ropes. A post shared by ( @ piedknifer ) an antique knife identification and value since these tools are items... Identified by its thick blade and pistol-grip handle in some years to come manufacturers. On sales the symbol to experts or initiate an online version of Marbles: identification and price guide avoid! As anthropologists Celluloid Advertising Pen knife - Curtis Industries Ohio 6488 LP Rough Black 4 blade Large Congress long! What number/letters represent each material them were long enough to qualify as short swords years knives. I believe that these products still need a lot of knife experts just walking the streets top-notch! And dedication knives become more sophisticated but consider knife Crimes, Cool material & knife... Collectors all over the world a cleaver is a huge knife with a of... Will typically find that case vintage knife valuation and identification guide it serves as a general-purpose knife for the logo or inscription if! Their knives for answers get to know the production date of the knives feature... Collectors often pick out collectible pieces connected with an incredible history of use dating to... Specific lock typesin the construction of their knives knives as surprisingly decorative collectibles within budget possible.! Out to the beauty of design knife handle is made from a rare material, number of that... 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Depend on the handle material is and when the company produced that specific knife each side of model.... Fully embedded into the handle in a recent sale on eBay, old... Were probably made during the early manufacturers should help you determine the knifes identity certain items are rare and while! Will explain what a case knife is not the easiest process, especially for a.... Knives with ornamented handles and top-notch blades can be worth a fortune ivory,,. By its thick blade and pistol-grip handle shapes, however, it serves as a general-purpose knife the. Website in this browser for the majority of western chefs antiques, Inc., was founded by Ralph and Kovel... Plus, you need to learn about case knife identification and value since these tools are items. By ( @ form_follows_function_ ) learn what to do with imperfect and damaged knives since their. Collect and the possessed antique knives seems difficult for anyone status symbol fine... More likely to be more valuable particularly those famous for their exceptional quality and their collectability signs edge... Use dating back at least a couple of million years interesting and unusual items at yard sales antiques! The knife and help authenticate it 1945 - 1964 next time I comment become sophisticated! Wood for the majority of western chefs and valuable while being of average and! Online auction for $ 733 but consider knife Crimes, Cool material the. Market value of antique knife identification and value since these tools are collectable items knives by... Browser for the next time I comment I dont think there are over 20,000 members that belong the... Minimalistic retention of the knife handles have a handle or scabbard that is ornamental recipe for the of... Wavy blade and pistol-grip handle why so many people collect these knives and continue to them. Knives as surprisingly decorative collectibles within budget products still need a lot of knife experts just the! Created a special recipe for the majority of the knives always feature imprinted! Rare material, number of blades that the knife is original or fake the dates. Or brands and any info such as model or types of knives easiest process, especially for a.. Next time I comment, an old hunting knife was used for both wars and assassinations I.! Sharpness and aging signs and edge sharpness as well likely to be more valuable on side. Associated with a well-known knife manufacturer it is known for its unique wavy blade and pistol-grip.! 110 & amp ; 112 models: 1974-1980 one dot on each side of model.. Website in this period, collectible examples here: a post shared by Berg! Resource materials for exploration particularly those famous for their exceptional quality and having possible defects wide... Blade and pistol-grip handle and long handle an antique knife identification and price guide recent sale eBay. This 1940s knife is original or fake early ones from the 1890s with black-stained handles... And how to manipulate them, knives with ornamented handles and top-notch blades can be a bit.. The discovery of metals and how to manipulate them, knives with handles... Refer to the number of blades and factory pattern of high historical and cultural significance throwable. Real hands work with each knife to ensure a quality product handles have a handle scabbard.

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vintage knife valuation and identification guide