Back in the late 1800’s pocket knives began their use as promotional products. The Remington Cutlery Company started to produce knives with other company logos, like Purina Nehi, Franklin Fire Insurance, and Kelly Tires. These “Company Logo Knives” are the earliest examples that I can find. So, if you ever find an old-looking pocket knife at a flea market with those logos, it is probably over 100 years old.
The 5 criteria that determine the value of an old company logo knife, are,
- Age of the knife
- Condition
- Material of the handle
- Style
- Brand
An extensive source of knowledge on Company Logo Knives can be found in this fantastic book:
White, Richard D., Advertising Cutlery With Values, Schiffer Publishing Ltd. , 1999