Vintage Miniature Brass Scimitar Sword Cocktail Pick
Unbranded (Marked ITALY) · Kitchenware > Barware & Accessories
Era / Decade
1950s - 1960s (Mid-Century)
Material
Cast Brass / Base Metal Alloy. The golden-yellow hue and slight oxidation are characteristic of vintage Italian brass novelty items.
Condition
Good. Shows natural patina and oxidation consistent with age. There is no visible bending in the blade, and the ornate handle detail remains crisp.
Demand Level
Niche. Collectors of barware or miniature weapons specifically seek these out to complete sets.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$8.00 - $15.00 (Single Replacement) / $45.00 - $65.00 (Full Set of 6-12)
Estimated Retail Value
$5.00 - $8.00 (Estimated original relative cost for a souvenir set)
Comparable Sales
Recent individual sales on eBay for similar Italian brass sword picks range from $7 to $12 plus shipping. Complete sets of 6 with a holder typically sell for $35 to $55 depending on complexity of the hilt design.
Description
Attractive vintage miniature cocktail pick or hors d'oeuvre sword in a scimitar style. This piece features a curved blade stamped 'ITALY' and an ornate hilt depicting a stylized animal or mythological figure. Measuring approximately 3 inches in length, it is cast from heavy brass. Perfect for Mid-Century Modern bar setups or collectors of vintage Italian novelty barware.
Key Features
Ornate Italian craftsmanship, Mid-Century Modern aesthetic, collectible 'Grand Tour' style souvenir, durable brass construction, stamped 'ITALY' for origin.
Authenticity Indicators
Clear 'ITALY' stamp on the blade; weight and texture consistent with sand-cast brass from the mid-20th century. High confidence in authenticity.
Flaws to Note
Aged patina and minor surface tarnish (greenish oxidation near the hilt). This is a single unit, usually sold in sets with a holder, which limits its individual value.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage barware enthusiasts), eBay (highest reach for collectors needing replacements), or local vintage booths/antique malls.
Selling Tips
List this as a 'replacement pick' for someone missing one from their set. Mention 'MCM', 'Barware', and 'Brass' in keywords. Do not highly polish it—collectors prefer the vintage patina. Use macro photography to show the 'ITALY' mark clearly.
Notes
Says Italy