Ka-Bar UCCO Clean Pen Knife – MOP Celluloid Advertising Knife – Circa 1940s–50s

This elegant little pen knife is a gleaming slice of American industrial history. Manufactured by Ka-Bar, one of the nation’s most iconic knife makers, this slim two-blade folder was produced for Union Carbide & Carbon Corp.—branded on the secondary blade with “UCCO Clean,” a nod to the company’s industrial-grade cleaning agents once promoted across labs, shops, and workrooms.

The handle features beautiful faux mother-of-pearl scales that shimmer with iridescent warmth, offset by nickel silver bolsters and brass liners. Both blades remain functional, with solid snap and only light wear for its age. Knives like this were often gifted to clients, distributors, or safety award recipients—designed not just to impress, but to endure.

Specs:

Maker: Ka-Bar (Union Cutlery Co., USA)

Tang Stamp: KA-BAR (main), UCCO CLEAN (secondary)

Blades: 2 – spear point master and pen blade

Handle: Faux mother-of-pearl celluloid

Bolsters: Nickel silver

Closed Length: Approx. 3 1/8"

Condition: Very good vintage condition with clean handles, strong snap, and light honest blade wear. Some surface patina and minor aging to the bolsters and blades.

🧲 Historical Note:
During the mid-20th century, companies like Union Carbide used branded knives as part of promotional campaigns and safety initiatives. Ka-Bar, known for quality even in its smaller pen knives, provided a durable canvas for these efforts. “UCCO Clean” was a line of industrial solvents and cleaners—this knife is a surviving fragment of a bygone era when marketing was meant to be pocket-sized and personal.

🧷 Collector’s Note:
Advertising knives from major American brands like Ka-Bar are highly collectible, especially when linked to notable companies like Union Carbide. The striking mother-of-pearl handles and crisp dual tang stamps make this a standout for collectors of corporate memorabilia, Ka-Bar history, or mid-century American design.

⚠️ 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!
By purchasing this knife, you are confirming that you are 18 years of age or older and are complying with all applicable laws and regulations regarding knife ownership in your area.