You Could Be Sitting On A Mini Fortune If You Own These Vintage Knives

Whether you discovered a selection of vintage cutlery at your local thrift store or they were gifted to you as a hand-me-down from your grandparents, knives made from carbon steel could be worth much more than you realize. These utensils are easily overlooked since they're quite different from the stainless materials many of us are used to. For those who feel a little out of their depth when it comes to culinary blades, the ultimate guide to kitchen knives sets you up for success.

There are a number of factors that determine if your blade is valuable, some of them being historical significance, the materials from which it was forged, and its function. Before you get your blade appraised by a professional, check a few of these features for yourself. For example, following your knife's history gives you a fuller picture of its previous ownership and can help determine whether it's truly rare or not, which could increase its market value. The value of your carbon blade also comes down to whether or not you have the official documentation proving its origin and how it was made. Learning about where your knife was forged can also aid in understanding its worth; some have been produced in globally significant places in small quantities, further adding financial viability to the otherwise unassuming assets that happen to sit in your cutlery drawer.

Within the last century or so, stainless steel has become integrated into our daily lives as a result of it's durability, lower likelihood of rusting, and comparative ease of upkeep. Therefore, carbon alternatives have become rarer to come by and more valuable (in some cases). Though carbon steel is more intensive to look after, it's easy to sharpen and known to hold its edge for longer. With a bit of attentiveness assisted by the absolute best knife sharpeners for home chefs, carbon steel can better maintain its value.

If you're worried about this material's proneness to rust, a forced coffee patina can assist in its preservation since carbon blades often oxidize, creating a wide range of discolorations that may appear unsightly. Many appreciate the appearance of carbon steel, though. As a result, the variety of knives on the market may compel you to incorporate them into your personal collection despite the higher maintenance. For anyone intrigued by carbon steel's unique qualities and wondering where to get your own, consider online platforms that specialize in vintage knives and cutlery, such as Garrett Wade and Bernal Cutlery. They offer knives as low as $15 or up to and over $300, depending on the age, size, and type of blade.