English Sterling-Bladed Fruit Knife w/ Case

For PJF: Here is an example of another Sterling silver-bladed fruit knife from England. The hallmarks on the blade indicate, left to right: Crown = made in Sheffield. Lion Passant = Sterling silver. “f” cartouche’ = 1899 (the EXACT font and the Exact shape of the surround are important in determining the year because variations on the letters were repeated every 20 years or so). “HA” = the mark of Atkins Brothers. This knife has many “special” features. The handles are carved mother-of-pearl. The tiny pins set into the handle are called “pique’ work“(pronounced pee–kay’). The bolster is engraved and pinched. The back-spring is covered with a thin layer of textured silver. The leather-covered cardboard case is original. Note the two “flowers” on the case sides indicating which sides are to go together when you replace the lid. Variations on fruit knives are almost endless. Some are marked “coin” (90% silver); some are unmarked but have silver-plated blades. Just don’t call them “ladies knives.” Both men and women of sophistication carried small fancy knives for various uses. Special fruit knives died out soon after stainless steel was introduced for knife blades ca. 1920.