Vintage Goodwill Shoes Advertising Pocket Knife – LunaWerk Solingen Germany – Early 1900s – Holliston Massachusetts Shoe Store Promo Knife

This vintage advertising pocket knife is a true piece of American retail history, produced by LunaWerk of Solingen, Germany, likely between the 1920s and 1940s. The knife features a die-cast shoe-shaped aluminum handle reading:
“Goodwill Shoes – For Hard Service and Long Wear – Holliston, Mass.”

A single blade folds neatly into the handle, and the reverse bears a matching shoe tread pattern. Compact and character-rich, this knife was originally a promotional giveaway from a Massachusetts shoe store, offering both practical utility and memorable branding to customers.

Maker: LunaWerk – Solingen, Germany
Handle: Die-cast aluminum (shoe shape)
Blade: Single spear-point blade
Blade Stamp: LunaWerk Solingen Germany
Closed Length: Approx. 2 7/8"
Open Length: Approx. 4 7/8"

Condition:
The blade shows honest surface wear and patina consistent with age and use, but still opens and closes smoothly. The aluminum handle remains crisp and highly legible, with excellent shoe tread detail on the back side. Please see all photos for a complete visual description.

Historical Note:
Advertising pocket knives like this one became especially popular in the early 20th century, when companies sought practical items to stay top-of-mind with hardworking customers. German manufacturers, especially those in Solingen (the "City of Blades"), were often contracted for their excellent workmanship at competitive prices. Goodwill Shoes of Holliston, Massachusetts, capitalized on this trend, commissioning this memorable promotional knife during a booming period of American small business.

Collector’s Note:
Advertising knives featuring specific regional businesses—especially paired with unusual shapes like this boot sole—are increasingly collectible. This piece beautifully captures a slice of early 20th-century American consumer culture, while also representing Solingen's long tradition of blade-making excellence.

Pricing Justification:
Scarcer regional advertising knives like this Solingen-made Goodwill Shoes piece are prized among collectors for their blend of craftsmanship and American retail nostalgia. Its uncommon handle design and regional branding make it a strong display or conversation piece.

Disclaimer:
All knives in this shop are vintage or pre-owned unless stated otherwise. While many are in excellent condition, they may show normal signs of age or handling such as scuffs, blemishes, or blade wear. I try to document condition as accurately as possible in both the description and photos. Feel free to reach out with any questions!