Hello all,
I have recently come into possession of a Bill Mains custom knife that I found while out thrifting the other day and had to pick it up. It came with the original order form, the options page, and receipts along with an article about them from the same time. It looks to be stamped number 59 and has Bill's mark on it as well.
I had a few things I was hoping someone might be able to help me out with:
First, is there any way to tell how many were made? I know this one is 59, but out of how many?
Second, I think this was engraved by Bill Mains himself, rather than BJG who I believe took over engraving later on, since it doesn't have his mark on it from what I can tell. Is there any way to tell who engraved it?
Third, there is some spotting on the blade and some green on the handle probably due to how it was stored. Is it worth trying to clean it up or should I leave it as is?
Finally, I am torn on whether or not to keep this one. It's not exactly the style I normally add to my collection and I was considering passing it on to someone who would appreciate it a little more. On the other hand it is a gorgeous piece and I really enjoy the engraving. If I do decide to pass it on, what would be an appropriate value for something like this in it's current condition?
I'll attach the pics that I have, and if any of this breaks rules, or it shouldn't be posted here let me know!
Thanks in advance,
CujiWuji
I have recently come into possession of a Bill Mains custom knife that I found while out thrifting the other day and had to pick it up. It came with the original order form, the options page, and receipts along with an article about them from the same time. It looks to be stamped number 59 and has Bill's mark on it as well.
I had a few things I was hoping someone might be able to help me out with:
First, is there any way to tell how many were made? I know this one is 59, but out of how many?
Second, I think this was engraved by Bill Mains himself, rather than BJG who I believe took over engraving later on, since it doesn't have his mark on it from what I can tell. Is there any way to tell who engraved it?
Third, there is some spotting on the blade and some green on the handle probably due to how it was stored. Is it worth trying to clean it up or should I leave it as is?
Finally, I am torn on whether or not to keep this one. It's not exactly the style I normally add to my collection and I was considering passing it on to someone who would appreciate it a little more. On the other hand it is a gorgeous piece and I really enjoy the engraving. If I do decide to pass it on, what would be an appropriate value for something like this in it's current condition?
I'll attach the pics that I have, and if any of this breaks rules, or it shouldn't be posted here let me know!
Thanks in advance,
CujiWuji