Elevate your collection with an incredible piece of American hardware history. This original vintage Collins Tools advertising sign is a true survivor, discovered as New Old Stock (NOS) from a local estate—still preserved in its original shipping box.
Specifications:
- Brand: Collins Axe Co. (Collinsville, CT)
- Era: Circa 1930s – 1960s
- Material: High-quality vintage cardboard
- Dimensions: 22" x 14"
- Visuals: Vibrant multi-color graphics with classic branding
- Condition: Excellent "New Old Stock" condition; rare to find these with such crisp colors and sharp edges.
- Origin: Proudly made in the USA.
The Legacy of the Collins Company:
Founded in 1826 by brothers Samuel and David Collins in Canton, Connecticut, the Collins Company became the world’s largest manufacturer of edge tools by the mid-19th century. Known as the "Standard of the World," their tools were so essential to global progress that they were used in the California Gold Rush, the construction of the Trans-Siberian Railway, and even by Admiral Peary on his expedition to the North Pole.
- A True American Original: Collins was the first company in the U.S. to produce "ready-to-use" axes that were already sharpened and handled, a revolutionary concept at the time.
- The "Legitimus" Mark: To combat counterfeits in the late 1800s, the company introduced the famous Legitimus "Crown and Hammer" logo, a symbol of the highest quality steel and craftsmanship.
- End of an Era: The company’s original Collinsville factory—which actually gave the town its name—closed its doors in 1966 after 140 years of operation.
This specific sign represents the final golden era of the original Connecticut factory. Finding an original advertising piece from this period in New Old Stock condition is incredibly rare, as most were used until they fell apart or were lost to the devastating flood of 1955 that destroyed much of the factory's records and inventory. Whether you're a tool enthusiast or a vintage advertising collector, this rare, sign is the perfect centerpiece for a shop, man cave, or gallery.