Another of the last few original toenail makers closes its doors
As reported in the December edition of Knife World, Camillus has gone out of business. I can imagine it is hard to compete against the foreign makers.
Goins’ has the firm being established in c. 1902. if you search The List here in ET.com you will find many variations of toenails made . One of the most recognizable is their Sword Brand, yet they made knives on contract for many companies.
One of the aspects I like about Camillus is they made many different variations of toenails. Right now, Camillus toenails are still reasonably priced, but I have hunch they won’t be for long. It is an established fact that once a knife company goes out of business, their knives increase in value. My suggestion is, therefore, to grab the ones you can. Camillus will be a valuable brand because there is simply too much history associated with this firm for not to be a favorite as time goes by.
My favorite Camillus toenails are the peachseed bone handle toenails, through you will find celluloid too (I even have a celluloid Camillus with nude lady on both sides. It was made for Star Brand Seeds and is pretty old. I haven’t been able to find any info out on that company.)
Lastly, looking back through Levines’ Guide 4th Edition, he creates Camillus with producing knives for Kastor (though I haven’t located any toenails stamped Kastor), Hibbert Spencer and Bartlett (HSB whose brand was Our Very Best (OVB), Sword Brand (an in house brand of Camillus) and Zenith (though most were made by NYKC)
Bruce Voyles in his book The IBCA price guide to Antique Knives second edition also states Camillus made knives for Henry Sears and Van Camp (you will find toenails stamped with both of these brands).
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