Vintage Stainless Steel Knife Blade Fragment

This item is the metallic portion of a flatware implement, specifically a knife blade, resting on a textured pink textile surface. The blade is constructed from stainless steel and features a matte, brushed finish that exhibits significant signs of historical utility and age. The most distinguishing feature is the acid-etched or stamped cursive inscription on the face of the metal, which reads 'Imperial Stainless U.S.A.' The font style suggests a manufacturing period likely between the mid-20th century (1940s-1960s). The surface of the steel shows heavy wear, characterized by numerous fine linear scratches, scuffing, and localized areas of oxidation or biological residue. There is a notable dark, triangular void or notch near the bolster area, which may be a point of fracture or a specific design element of a folding pocket knife rather than a fixed-blade dining knife. The blade edges appears dull, and the overall patina consists of a dull grey metallic sheen typical of older alloys. The craftsmanship is consistent with mass-produced American cutlery of the post-war era, prioritizing durability and functionality over ornate decoration.