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🔹 FROM THE COLLECTOR’S TABLE
Antique Camillus Cutlery Co. – Four-Line Stamp – Elephant Toe / Sunfish – Circa 1930s–1940s
Here’s a fine old example of one of America’s most recognizable heavy-duty pocketknife patterns. This substantial Camillus elephant toe measures 4¼ inches closed and features the desirable four-line tang stamping, broad carbon steel blades, and some of the most attractive old jigged bone handles you’ll encounter.
🔹 A LITTLE HISTORY
Camillus Cutlery Co. of Camillus, New York, was one of America’s established pocketknife manufacturers, with a history reaching back into the 19th century.
The four-line Camillus Cutlery Co. stamping is associated with earlier production, particularly the prewar and World War II years.
The elephant toe, also known as the sunfish, has long been a favorite among collectors of antique American cutlery. Its broad blades, oversized frame, and unmistakable profile represent a classic chapter in American pocketknife history.
🔸 THE HANDLES
The genuine jigged bone is definitely one of several highlights of this knife!
Deep, irregular jigging runs across both sides, displaying a beautiful combination of warm amber, rich caramel brown, and darker contrasting tones. The depth and character of this old bone are particularly appealing, with an aged appearance that photographs exceptionally well.
Both handles are free of cracks, and the bone displays wonderful color and texture throughout.
🔹 CONDITION & COLLECTOR’S NOTES
✦ Maker: Camillus Cutlery Co. – Camillus, N.Y.
✦ Era: Circa 1930s–1940s
✦ Pattern: Elephant Toe / Sunfish
✦ Closed Length: 4¼ inches
✦ Handles: Genuine deeply jigged bone – crack-free
✦ Blades: Two broad carbon steel blades, including double-pull master
✦ Blade Condition: Both retain substantial profiles, showing evidence of previous sharpening, surface scratches, and age-related discoloration.
✦ Mechanics: Good blade action and mechanics. No blade wobble or side to side play detected.
✦ Bolsters: Heavy rounded metal bolsters with surface wear and handling marks consistent with age.
This is an honest antique example that has survived with its beautiful bone intact, strong overall blade profiles, and good working mechanics.
An especially attractive old Camillus with the size, character, and classic appearance that make these early American elephant toes so collectible.
🔍 Please examine all photographs carefully, as they are an important part of the description and provide the best representation of condition.
🔹 THE COLLECTOR’S TABLE
I invite you to browse my other listings for a carefully selected assortment of vintage and antique pocketknives from historic American and European cutlery makers.
My goal is simple: to offer the kind of collector’s table you keep coming back to.
Thanks for your interest!
Kind regards,
Perry
