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Item Description
The rule closely matches the documented construction and specifications of the Stanley No. 65½ found in historical company catalogs and specialist collector literature. Its distinctive model engraving and lack of a visible STANLEY trademark make it particularly interesting for collectors researching early production variations.
Model engraving: No. 65½ - Attributed manufacturer: Stanley Rule & Level Co.
- Overall extended length: 12 inches / 1 foot
- Construction: Four-fold
- Width: Approximately 5/8 inch
- Wood: Boxwood
- Metalwork: Full brass edge binding and brass hinges
- Joint construction: Square joint
- Graduations: Eighths and sixteenths of an inch
- Alignment hardware: Three brass steady pins with corresponding receiving holes
- Manufacturer's trademark: None visible
- Finish: Original naturally aged wood and brass patina
- Restoration: None performed
A Bit of History
The No. 65½ was part of Stanley's documented line of traditional folding rules. The company's April 1934 Catalog No. 34 describes the No. 65½ as a one-foot, four-fold rule, 5/8 inch wide, with square joints, full brass binding, and graduations in eighths and sixteenths of an inch.
Early Stanley Attribution & Marking History
A distinguishing feature of this antique rule is its old-style serif No. 65½ model engraving, positioned between the 4-inch and 5-inch graduations. The engraved N includes a small, separate mark beneath and slightly to its left. The meaning of this mark has not been established.
In Chapter 3 of Boxwood & Ivory, Philip E. Stanley documents a historical change in factory markings: sometime between 1879 and 1898, Stanley began adding the STANLEY name beside the model number on the outside of boxwood rules. Earlier examples could have different arrangements of model numbers and manufacturer markings, including identification near the inside main joint.
The book also explains that Stanley's marking conventions were not followed uniformly and that variations occurred. Consequently, the absence of a later-style exterior trademark is consistent with a possible earlier production style, but is not by itself proof of a specific date.
Why Might an Early Rule Lack a Stanley Trademark?
Three Original-Style Brass Alignment Pins
One of the most appealing features of this rule is the survival of all three brass steady or alignment pins, along with their corresponding receiving holes.
All three pins appear straight, with no visibly broken or missing pins. The receiving holes are present, and the original-style brass hardware contributes to the rule's complete appearance.
Original Condition & Collector Appeal
This rule has been preserved in as-found condition. The boxwood displays warm, naturally aged coloration, while the brass binding and hinges have developed an attractive period patina.
The engraved inch numerals and fine graduations remain readable. The full brass binding and original-style hinge hardware are present, with expected surface wear and age-related imperfections.
No attempt has been made to clean away the patina, polish the brass, refinish the wood, or alter the engraving.
Historical Research References
New Jersey Tool Collectors Association, The Tool Shed, No. 148, September 2007: Discusses Stanley's custom and advertising-rule production, including examples manufactured for other sellers without Stanley branding.
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