Stanley No. 46 Adjustable Dado and Plough Plane – Type 4 (c. 1884-1886)

Overview
Offered here is an exceptional example of the Stanley No. 46 "Traut’s Patented" Combination Plane. This is a Type 4, produced between 1884 and 1886, featuring the skewed iron geometry preferred by craftsmen for superior performance in cross-grain work. I think it’s Stanley’s most beautiful plane.

History and Condition
This plane is in remarkable, original condition. It has been carefully cleaned and waxed to preserve its 140-year-old history:
• The factory japanning is amazing and remains deep and dark. It has been meticulously cleaned to reveal the intricate "floral" castings characteristic of this era. Japanning is chipped an worn and 75% is remaining.
• Features the correct, one-piece slotted Rosewood tote with a clear 1873 patent date and original branding. The wood is smooth, waxed, and free of the common cracks found in these early handles.
• All original screws and components are present, including the frequently missing guard plate and depth stop. All threads move smoothly and lock securely.

Technical Preparation
This plane is ready for immediate use or display.
• The 1-1/2" filletster cutter is sharp with a shave-ready edge.
• The spurs are honed for crisp scoring of wood fibers.

Specifications
• Type: 4 (1884-1886)
• Cutter: 1-1/2 inch Filletster
• Construction: Japanned iron with Rosewood handles
• Skewed iron, adjustable fence, and original depth hardware.

This No. 46 is a standout piece for its preservation of original finishes and its high-level mechanical state. It is a rare find for the collector who values a tool that looks—and performs—exactly as a 19th-century Stanley should.
Please review the high-resolution photos for details. It will be packed securely for safe arrival.

Combined Shipping
Check my other upcoming or live auctions for more professional-grade Swedish and American steel—including a Berg 'Charcoal Steel' chisel and a complete 13-Bit set of Russell Jennings No. 100 auger bits.

If you are bidding on multiple items from my shop this week, please do NOT pay for each item individually. Once all auctions have ended, I will send a single, combined invoice with a discounted shipping total.