Posted 8 years ago
rebeccariedy
(1 item)
I would like to know the history and value of this multi tool if anyone else has ever seen it. It came from my grandfather, probably made in the 30's, but not sure. It looks like it was made from two 5 franc coins from 1840. The tools close up into the coins entirely. It has a case that looks like it could have been home made. Inside are a knife, a file and scissors.
I've seen one before & believe they were marketed, way back when !
Fascinating thing.
This is a "coin knife" made from a real coin which was sawed in half. I can't read the markings in your picture but they were often made by a firm in France by the name of Eloi Pernet. Eloi used many different large obsolete silver coins from France and Spain (dates range from ca. 1840s through the 19th century)to create these knives. Many other firms made similar knives from round non-coin stampings made specifically for the purpose. Yours is in better condition than many and the leather pouch is a nice addition. They sell for about $90 to $125. Yours may bring more due to its condition and pouch. The spring for the scissors is missing but this is a minor consideration. They are not uncommon and many are listed on eBay all the time. Contrary to many eBay listing these are NOT "cigar cutters" except that you can cut a cigar with ANY knife. (Actually they would be very poor cigar cutters due to the very short blade.)