Antique British Silver-Handled Pocket Knife, Circa 1880s–1890s – Victorian Gentleman’s Folder

This refined antique British pocket knife exemplifies the understated elegance and functional craftsmanship of the late Victorian era. Compact and well-proportioned at just 3 1/4 inches closed, this gentleman’s folder was designed to be carried discreetly while still reflecting the personal taste and status of its owner.

The knife features engraved silver handles adorned with flowing wave-pattern decoration and a central cartouche, a style strongly associated with late 19th-century English cutlery, particularly from the Sheffield tradition. The engraving remains crisp, with a pleasing, even patina developed over more than a century.

The main blade bears three struck identification marks, including:

a female profile, consistent with Victorian-era British silver stamping,

a “W” maker’s initial, and

a bird motif, likely a trade or workshop mark.

Together, these marks strongly support British manufacture during the late 1800s, even though the exact maker remains unidentified—a common and accepted reality with antique Sheffield pocket knives of this type.

Specifications

Origin: England (attributed)

Era: Circa 1880s–1890s (Victorian era)

Pattern: Gentleman’s pen knife

Blades: Main blade with secondary implement

Blade Marks: Female profile, “W” initial, bird trade mark

Handle: Engraved silver-toned metal with decorative cartouche

Closed Length: Approx. 3 1/4"

Construction: Traditional slipjoint

Condition

This knife is in honest antique condition, showing wear consistent with age and careful historical use. The engraved handles remain structurally sound and visually striking, with no cracks or repairs noted.

The main blade opens smoothly but has light closing snap and minor side-to-side wobble, typical of a knife of this age and not unexpected in Victorian slipjoints. The secondary blade/implement functions properly. Blade surfaces show age-related wear without abuse.

Overall, this piece presents beautifully and is best appreciated today as a historical collectible rather than a daily user. This knife ships wrapped in acid-free archival tissue to help preserve both the blade and handle during transit and storage.

Historical Note

During the late Victorian period, British pocket knives were often produced in Sheffield by skilled cutlers working for both local and export markets. Silver-handled examples were especially popular among gentlemen, combining everyday utility with decorative metalwork. Partial hallmarking and trade marks—such as those seen here—were common on folding knives, particularly when sold through wholesalers or smaller workshops.

Collector’s Note

Antique British silver-handled pocket knives are increasingly scarce, particularly examples that retain clear engraving and original blade stamps. This knife is an excellent addition for collectors of Victorian cutlery, British antiques, or silver-mounted pocket knives, offering both visual elegance and authentic period character.

Disclaimer

All knives in this shop are vintage or pre-owned unless stated otherwise. This knife shows normal signs of age and historical use. I strive to document condition as accurately as possible through both description and photographs. Please review all images carefully and feel free to reach out with any questions.

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