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Vintage Hugo Köller Solingen Germany Lockback Pocket Knife 4.5" Wood MINT 1970s
Up for sale is a remarkably preserved, museum-grade vintage Hugo Köller lockback utility pocket knife. Manufactured in the legendary cutlery capital of Solingen, Germany, during the transition era of the 1970s to early 1980s.
This is not a heavily used utility or agricultural tool; it is a pristine, unused, and uncarried specimen showing full original factory mirror finish. It represents an absolute reference example for serious collectors of traditional European cutlery.
### Technical Specifications:
* **Overall Length (OAL):** 7.75" (Open)
* **Closed Length:** 4.5" (Full-size, robust utility frame footprint)
* **Country of Origin:** Solingen, Germany (Pre-1991 standalone factory production)
* **Pattern:** Premium Single-Bolster Lockback Utility Folder
### Rare Collector Stamping Trifecta:
This particular piece features an incredibly rare configuration of three distinct factory markings:
1. **Deep Struck Front Tang Stamp:** The mark side (front) tang features a crisp, deeply hot-die struck block text stamp reading "HUGO KÖLLER" right at the pivot.
2. **Pristine Front Blade Etch:** Perfectly aligned on the flat mirror finish of the blade is the classic circular eagle crest emblem reading "Hugo Köller Solingen Germany / Rostfrei" — entirely sharp and unfaded.
3. **Rare Rear Cursive Script Stamp:** The pile side (rear) tang features a highly unique, flowing cursive "Rostfrei" script stamp struck tightly against the top curve of the bolster.
### Condition & Material Highlights:
* **The Blade:** High-grade Solingen Rostfrei (Stainless Steel) with a flawless drop-point profile. Absolutely no sharpening scratches, scuffs, or cross-grind marks.
* **The Handle Scales:** Gorgeous, smooth dark wood scales with an elegant natural grain pattern. Completely free of pocket wear, cracks, or shrinkage.
* **The Fit & Hardware:** Features a premium single lined nickel silver bolster that has developed a beautiful subtle patina. All brass pins sit completely flush with the wood.
* **The Mechanics:** The blade snaps open smoothly and sits centered when closed. The lock bar integrates completely flush with the backspring, providing a rock-solid lockup with zero blade play.
Please study the photographs carefully to appreciate the phenomenal preservation and unique markings of this rare German classic.