Kelly Head stamp - number 8 inside a circle -ADDED PIC

Casehardn

Casehardn

Joined
Nov 14, 2011
Messages
46
Does anyone out there know what it means when you have a number 8 inside of a circle.
I recently picked up a Kelly axe with this stamp on the underside of the poll.

Usually I find head weights on the underside of the poll, but the head only weighs just shy of 4 lbs.

Any info appreciated.

I'll try and post a pic tomorrow. Camera battery is charging tonight.



Just added a pic. Says Kelly, worlds finest on one side and true temper on the other. Guessing late 40's - early 50's. ?
Cuts nice. Largest edge (5-1/2) from heel to toe of any axe I currently own.

P1000903.jpg
 
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As I recall, I believe Kelly used to use that to designate the drop forge operator who worked the axe. I seriously can't remember where I might have heard that...I'll have to look around. I really hope I didn't just pull that out of my arse!
 
Memphis is correct. That is usually what that number indicated. I have read that it might if been a lot of axes - say the 8 meant all the axes produced thru certain dates. Though it was more common that the number under the poll was the operators number.
 
Operator1975 said:
Memphis is correct. That is usually what that number indicated. I have read that it might if been a lot of axes - say the 8 meant all the axes produced thru certain dates. Though it was more common that the number under the poll was the operators number.
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Phwew! Some of my kellys have those stamps as well.
 
holy s&^t :eek: where in the hell did you get that?
that thing may be the most beautiful axe i have ever seen... :cool:

do ya wanna sell it? seriously...!
 
OH......MY.......Wow. What the frick....

ETA: That is stunning. Damn. I'm a bit speechless. Operator has one of that model, BTW.
 
I'm not one to hang an axe on the wall but that thing is just too nice put to use. Take good care of it.
 
Square_peg said:
I'm not one to hang an axe on the wall but that thing is just too nice put to use. Take good care of it.
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I will. Picked it up at a flea market which is held on Sundays at an old drive-in movie theater. The guy wanted $40 and I talked him down to $25.
...My wife jokes about all the axes I bring home. But she's happy when it's cold outside and we've got a fire in the stove.
 
:eek::eek::eek: That Sir is a beautiful axe :thumbup:. $25 for that one was an absolute steal, congrats!

cooperhill's is pretty outstanding as well :)
 
I agree with made2cut. That is an amazing score, and a fantastic price. Original handle with paint AND label.
 
Thats a fabulas axe, you sir are a lucky man!!
I have a bunch of kellys but do not know what it means.


Larry
 
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