Actually there are two defects, a bent bail and the unfortunate bone chip located right at the easy open cut-out on the pile side (see last photo). Main blade tang stamp is "IMPERIAL/PROV. R.I." Secondary blade is stamped "U.S.A." That stamp dates this knife circa 1936 - 1952, an era when Imperial made some high quality knives. This is the same knife shown on the bottom of page 137 of the 1998 edition of Goins' Encyclopedia.
If you think you might be interested read the back story below.
In my early knife collecting days I bought a lot of knives that I would pass on today because my collecting eye is more discerning. I've identified about 100 that I want to sell. These are not expensive knives and they have flaws but they might be of interest either for your collection, to resell, or to pass on to a youngster or budding collector. I'm going to try something a little different.
1) All knives are MAKE AN OFFER. Any offer is welcome; I won't be offended by lowballs.
2) If I think it's too low I'll decline and I'll add a post saying, for example, "I turned down $5." If no one else makes an offer I'll know I should have taken the $5!
3) If it sells I'll post the sale price.
4) Shipping in the CONUS is $3.
5) Any knife can be returned for a refund.
Cash, check, PayPal (F&F). Offers by email preferred ([email protected]) but PM is OK.
Dennis
Sold so far: Remington, Colonial, Hen & Rooster
