Vintage 1946–1948 Queen Pen Knife – Quaker State “Quality Waxes” Advertising – 3 3/8" – Early Postwar American Cutlery

This vintage Queen Cutlery pen knife dates to approximately 1946–1948, placing it among the earliest post–World War II Queen production. Featuring creamy yellow celluloid handles with crisp “Quaker State – Quality Waxes” advertising, this knife is a wonderful example of mid-century promotional cutlery—made when oil companies, hardware stores, and service stations frequently commissioned pocketknives as customer giveaways.

The knife wears its decades of service with pride: both blades show honest patina, and while each has a bit of wobble open, both still snap strongly. Despite its age, the clip point and pen blades retain much of their original profile, a testament to how lightly the knife was sharpened over the years. A charming survivor from the golden age of American advertising knives.

Closed length: 3 3/8"

Specs

Maker: Queen Cutlery Co. – Titusville, Pennsylvania

Era: 1946–1948 (Early Postwar Production)

Pattern: Two-blade pen knife

Blades: Clip point and pen blade (carbon steel, patinated)

Handles: Yellow celluloid with embossed Quaker State advertising

Bolsters: Nickel silver

Closed Length: Approx. 3 3/8"

Condition

This knife shows appropriate age and patina across both blades and metal surfaces.

Blades have strong snap open and closed.

Light blade wobble on both, typical for a knife of this vintage.

Celluloid handles show small marks and age-related wear but remain intact.

Blades retain good original shape with no heavy reshaping or abuse.

A well-preserved early Queen advertising piece, perfect for collectors of oil & gas memorabilia, vintage cutlery, and Americana.

Historical Note

Queen Cutlery in the late 1940s was transitioning out of wartime production and rapidly becoming one of America’s premier makers of traditional pocketknives. Promotional knives like this Quaker State example were widely distributed to mechanics, service station owners, and loyal customers—bridging the worlds of American industry and everyday utility. Surviving examples from this era are increasingly scarce, especially with intact advertising.

Collector’s Note

Advertising knives—particularly from oil companies—remain one of the most vibrant pockets of the hobby. This Queen example is an early postwar production with authentic wear that tells its story honestly. A worthy addition to any collection of vintage Queen, early celluloid handles, or automotive-themed memorabilia.

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 confirm you are 18 years or older and complying with all laws regarding knife ownership in your area.