Overview
A classic example of Mid-Century 'gadget' cutlery, featuring a heavy-duty scalloped serrated blade and a cream-colored handle.
Preliminary identification
The Miracle Worker Frozen Food & All-Purpose Knife, c. 1960
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
Post-war suburban life was defined by the rise of the frozen TV dinner and the domestic freezer, but early frozen foods were often sold in solid, impenetrable blocks.
Maker / Origin
While often produced by various manufacturers like Quikut or Japanese export firms, these knives were the spiritual ancestors of the 'As Seen on TV' industry.
Condition & Value
The knife appears to be in excellent, possibly unused condition with the factory luster still on the blade. The original cardboard box shows some minor shelf wear and edge fraying, but the graphics remain bright and legible. The preservation of the packaging significantly maintains its collector appeal.
Full Research
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD