Vintage Colonial Advertising Jack Knife – Cities Service Petroleum – Providence USA – 2 Blade Pocket Knife

This vintage Colonial advertising jack knife is a classic piece of mid-century American promotional cutlery—compact, dependable, and built to be carried daily. Featuring a two-blade jack pattern with a clip point master and pen blade secondary, this knife reflects the practical designs Colonial Cutlery Co. was known for during its long tenure in Providence, Rhode Island.

The smooth cream-colored synthetic handles are boldly printed with advertising from Cities Service Petroleum Products on one side, and R. E. (Mickey) Williamson, Consignee – Springfield, Illinois on the reverse—an evocative glimpse into the era when local businesses relied on quality pocket knives as lasting promotional tools. Brass pins and liners pair with rounded bolsters to give the knife a warm, utilitarian character that has aged honestly over time.

Both blades are tight and well-fitted, opening and closing with strong snap and defined half-stops, speaking to Colonial’s solid factory construction.

🔧 Specs:

Maker: Colonial Cutlery Co. – Providence, Rhode Island, USA

Pattern: Advertising Jack Knife

Blades: 2 (Clip Point & Pen Blade)

Handle Material: Cream synthetic with printed advertising

Bolsters: Brass

Liners: Brass

Tang Stamps:

Master blade: Colonial Prov. USA

Pen blade: USA

Closed Length: Approx. 3 1/8"

Blade Action: Strong snap with firm half-stops on both blades

🔎 Condition Note:

This knife is in very good vintage condition. Both blades are tight with strong forward and back snap and well-defined mid-stops. There is visible patina and discoloration on the blades consistent with age and honest use. Handles are intact and secure with no cracks or major defects noted.
This knife ships wrapped in acid-free archival tissue to help preserve both the blade and handle during transit and storage.

📜 Historical Note:

Colonial Cutlery of Providence, Rhode Island produced millions of dependable pocket knives throughout the mid-20th century, many of which were sold or distributed as advertising pieces. Oil companies, hardware suppliers, and regional distributors frequently commissioned knives like this one, knowing they would see years—if not decades—of daily use in a customer’s pocket.

🧲 Collector’s Note:

Advertising knives offer a unique intersection of utility and social history. This example stands out for its crisp printed graphics, strong mechanical action, and readable regional provenance—making it a fine addition for collectors of vintage advertising, American pocket knives, or Colonial Cutlery specifically.

⚠️ 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.

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.