Preliminary identification

Advertising Money Clip Pocket Knife for Excel Auto Glass, Inc.

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A multi-functional gentleman's accessory combining a money clip with a fold-out stainless steel blade and nail file. It features a deeply embossed western-style floral scroll pattern surrounding a corporate logo for Excel Auto Glass, Inc.

Story

Corporate gift culture in the late 20th century turned everyday tools into status symbols. This piece was likely a 'thank you' for high-volume clients or long-tenured employees in the automotive glass industry.

Maker / Origin

While the specific manufacturer is unbranded, the 'Stainless Japan' stamp indicates it was produced during the height of Japan's dominance in the cutlery export market. Seki City, Japan, became the global hub for this type of high-quality, mass-produced steel hardware.

Condition & Value

The blade shows some tip wear and surface scratches consistent with use. The embossed casing has held its detail well, though there is minor pocket wear to the raised edges. The used condition keeps it at the lower end of the collector scale.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

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 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.