Vintage 1926 Cox & Gordon Packing Co. Pocket Knife – 50th Anniversary Commemorative – Carver Cutlery Co., Canton OH

This vintage Cox & Gordon Packing Co. commemorative pen knife is a rare piece of early 20th-century advertising, made to celebrate the company’s 50th anniversary in 1926. It features embossed cast metal handles with bold lettering reading “HAMS – MISSOURI BRAND – BACON” and “Cox & Gordon Packing Co., Saint Louis,” framed by a decorative raised border. A true relic from Missouri’s meat-packing heyday, this knife was likely given out as a promotional item to customers or employees.

The pen blade is tang-stamped Carver Cutlery Co., Canton, OH, a small manufacturer known for producing advertising and premium cutlery during the early 1900s.

Maker: Carver Cutlery Co. (Canton, OH)
Pattern Type: Slim pen knife (commemorative)
Blades: 2 – Spear point and pen blade (opposite ends)
Handle Material: Cast metal with embossed lettering
Shield: None (embossed commemorative design)
Bolsters: Integral cast construction
Liners: Steel (cast form)
Closed Length: Approx. 3 3/8"
Country of Origin: USA

Condition Notes:
Both blades show minimal wear with some light surface scratches and signs of careful handling. Strong open/close action with good snap and no wobble. The embossed text remains crisp and legible on both sides. This knife appears to have been lightly used or preserved as a keepsake, with typical patina from age but no structural issues.

Historical Note:
Founded in 1876, Cox & Gordon Packing Co. was a meat processor based in Saint Louis, Missouri. Like many regional packing houses of the time, they celebrated company milestones with commemorative giveaways. This knife marks their 50th year in business, honoring their flagship products—hams and bacon—with pride. The manufacturer, Carver Cutlery Co., operated out of Canton, Ohio, and is known for producing a limited number of advertising knives, mostly between the 1910s and 1930s.

Collector’s Note:
Advertising knives from the 1920s with this level of detail and preservation are increasingly difficult to find. This example bridges multiple collectible categories: early cutlery, food industry memorabilia, and Missouri history. Whether you're a regional collector, a knife enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates a good bacon story, this piece delivers both character and charm.

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!