Vintage BARBERS Straight Razor Horn Celluloid Faux Tortoise Scale w/ Coffin Box For Sale

Antique Early 1900s "BARBERS" Full Hollow Ground Straight Razor & Original Coffin Box

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND & EXPERT RESEARCH

This exceptional straight razor dates back to the golden age of American wet shaving (c. 1910s–1920s). The crisp, machine-engraved, block-serif "BARBERS" stamp on the tang indicates that this piece was manufactured as a dedicated commercial "house brand" razor for an early 20th-century trade distributor.

Based on the distinctive blue-and-white checkered interior pattern of the original cardboard coffin box, this piece strongly aligns with the premium inventory distributed by major turn-of-the-century supply networks like the Standard Barbers Supply Co. Companies of this era imported high-carbon "silver steel" blanks from Solingen, Germany, or contracted with leading domestic foundries like Geneva Cutlery Co. to stamp rugged, durable workhorse tools specifically for high-volume trade barber shops. Because it features a blank reverse tang, it represents a highly authentic, unbranded trade piece meant for commercial durability rather than standard retail.

HISTORICAL CHARACTERISTICS & DESIGN

• The Blade: Full Hollow Ground high-carbon steel blade featuring a preserved, crisp parallel ridge line. This precision grind yields an incredibly thin, flexible, and responsive edge (traditionally called a "singing blade") that master barbers relied on for a smooth shave.
• The Handle (Scales): Original, highly lustrous "tiger stripe" faux-tortoiseshell celluloid scales. Celluloid was the premier synthetic material of the era, chosen for its water resistance in humid shop environments. The scales retain excellent structural flexibility and are securely pinned with the original brass hardware.
• The Coffin Box: Comes nestled inside its authentic, period-correct tan cardboard slide-case "coffin box" wrapper. The interior reveals a vibrant blue-and-white checkered pattern lining, which was a specific decorative hallmark of premium Mid-Atlantic and Midwestern barber supply houses catering strictly to professionals.

CONDITION REPORT

• Steel: The blade shows minor, honest age-related spot patina and surface tarnish/light rust (as pictured). Cutting edge is free of nicks.
• Scales: Excellent structural integrity with no cracks, chips, warping, or signs of celluloid rot. The razor folds straight and true, centering between the scales when closed.
• Coffin Box: Complete and solid structural form showing expected light edge wear, superficial staining, and minor scuffing consistent with over a century of careful storage.

An absolute standout piece of turn-of-the-century American grooming history that perfectly bridges industrial trade utility with beautiful antique design. Sold exactly as found from a private collection. Please review all macro photographs for a precise look at the condition.

Buy With Confidence – Trusted Excellence for 30 Years

You are purchasing from a 30-year veteran seller committed to professional-grade service, detailed listing photos, accurate descriptions, safe packing and timely shipping. All items are competitively priced to offer the best value and peace-of-mind for collectors and enthusiasts.

• Condition Transparency: The high-resolution photos provided are of the exact item you will receive. Please review them carefully to confirm the condition, and feel free to ask any questions before your purchase.
• Professional Handling & Shipping: Every item is safely packed with care and shipped promptly to ensure it arrives in the exact condition shown.
• Real-Time Tracking: For your peace of mind, a tracking number is uploaded immediately upon shipment so you can monitor your delivery every step of the way.
• Terms of Sale: To maintain the integrity of these curated collectibles and downsizing deals, all sales are final—no returns, please.

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