Imperial Souvenier Knife,I know not a true Schrade

Todd A

Todd A

Joined
Oct 6, 2007
Messages
1,035
I know cheap and hundreds of thousands made but,could any of you collectors give me a general date range on this? I am thinking 1960's perhaps?

PICT0022.jpg


PICT0013.jpg


PICT0024.jpg
 
todd- dont be fooled that is a very true schrade. as imperial schrade was a major part of the big schrade picture, which has been around since 1916. in 1941/1942 ulster knife and imperial knife joined becoming Imperial knife associated companies. In 1946 albert and henry bayer who bought ulster in 1941 and merged it with imperial bought schrade cutlery and it became schrade walden corp. a divison of imperial knife. I belive and I may be corrected but imperial in providince RI closed in 1987. Once again I think,but some of the experts may have to correct that. I know someone will narrow it down more than I am but I know it has to be pre 1987.
While where talking about it if any of the experts come along when did imperial production begin in ireland?
Todd sorry I cant narrow it down better but if someone else dosent come along and give ya a better date I will do some more research. but dont think its not a real schrade cause its as schrade as it gets, and many of us here collects imperial schrades. - Joel
 
I personally believe that this knife is a bit earlier, circa 1951-1958. The stamping with the crown over the "i" and the vertical "USA" was noted by Goins as being c. 1954-88, but I think this one is on the earlier side. It is odd that the pocket chain survived, if it is original to the knife. These chains are most often seen on knives of the earlier part of last century.

Don't ever be reluctant to show a cheap knife here, especially one in excellent condition with original packaging. It was the cheap knives which built Imperial, Schrade and Camillus. They are an important part of the history. And because the structure was less robust, they seem to be even more uncommon that the hiigh-end knives these days!

I suggest that you take this over to the Levine forum and get his opinion of the aproximate age. He may concour with my opinion or set me on my ear, either of which is welcome!

Michael
 
This knife was my Grandpa's, I had just now "rediscovered" it while searching for other things.Some further info...

A quick call to my Dad (after my post :confused:)and your dates Codger seem correct.My Dad recalls buying it in New York on his 8th grade class trip (1957) for his Dad,seemed surprised it survived.

The chain is original to the knife,Dad said he bought it as a watch fob type cigar knife, although it was not made here.It is stamped Germany on the button "loop".

Thanks for your help Gentlemen.
 
The double family connection makes it an heirloom knife, even though it isn't gold plated and diamond mounted. My personal suggestion is to mount it in a glass front shadowbox with a picture of Grandpaw and Dad circa 1957. A nice, meaningful keepsake!

Michael
 
Good idea,next to Great-Grandpa's fraternal sword,my other Grandpa's Army Air Corp Case survival knife and my bayonets.

Again thanks for your help,although I wish I never found this forum,I've begun to stop and look at pocket knives at my bayonet "honey holes".:o

Know any good books I should think about picking up? :cool:
 
There is quite a list that make up a good knife library. It depends on just where your interest lies. Bayos and swords have their own following and references, as do commemoratives and different brands. One I can recommend for everyone, regardless of their interest is Goins Encyclopedia of Cutlery Markings by John and Charlotte Goins. Next would be Levine's Guide, 4th edition (out of print and pricey, but worth it). Then Bruce Voyles books. And then don't forget the publications like Knife World Magazine. First month free for new subscribers.

Well, that'll get you started! Welcome to the forum!

Michael
 
Already got a good bayo library,

I'll have to scour the net and used book stores then for Mr Levine's work.
Thanks
 
codger I know you mentioned the 4th edition it that the best one? I was looking into buying the 5th is one better than the other?- Joel
 
The 5th bears Bernard's name, but he had nothing to do with it. The publisher sold out and the new one kept the name on the 5th. The 4th, 3rd, 2nd etc. are the real Levine.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top