AI Appraisal Estimate

This item is a multi-blade folding pocket knife featuring a dark, polished handle—likely synthetic such as celluloid or composite—secured with four visible metal pins. The handle has a rounded butt and a single metal bolster at the pivot end. The knife contains at least two visible blades of unequal length with a spear-point profile. The primary blade bears an etched mark that appears to read 'JOSEPH RODGERS & SONS'. The tang of the smaller blade features a stamped marking consistent with 'G R' under a crown, followed by 'RODGERS CUTLERS TO HIS MAJESTY'. This imagery and text are stylistically consistent with British cutlery manufacturing from the early-to-mid 20th century, specifically the Sheffield region. The metal surfaces show visible signs of age including surface oxidation, pitting on the blade faces, and minor scratches. The bolster shows some darkening and potential Corrosion at the seam. While the markings suggest a specific maker, they must be treated as unverified without physical testing of the steel and inspection by a cutlery historian to exclude the possibility of period-conforming replicas or later assembly. The craftsmanship appears to be of standard utility grade for the era.

Based on my examination of the provided images, this multi-blade folding knife bears markings and a configuration consistent with the style of Joseph Rodgers & Sons of Sheffield. I can observe a 'G R' crown stamp and text referencing 'Cutlers to His Majesty,' which suggests a production window likely during the reign of King George V (1910–1936). However, because I am working from a photograph, I cannot verify the metallurgy, handle material composition, or mechanical integrity. These markings are treated here as a hypothesis for valuation purposes; I cannot rule out the possibility of period-conforming replicas or later assemblies without physical inspection. The value of $60-120 is estimated for an item of this type assuming the attribution is correct. Evidence of surface oxidation, pitting, and possible corrosion at the bolster significantly impacts the value, as collector demand for Sheffield cutlery favors pieces with high structural integrity and clear etching. In the current market, utility-grade folding knives of this era see moderate demand among general militaria and tool collectors. To confirm authorship and period accuracy, a cutlery historian would need to perform an in-person assessment of the pivot tension and specific stamping depths. If this item were determined to be a modern reproduction or an unattributed 'in the style of' piece, the market value would likely drop to a decorative or utility range of approximately $15-30. Conversely, if the handle scales were confirmed to be a rare natural material rather than a synthetic composite, the value could exceed the current estimate.