We found this when we were cleaning out my late grandpa's home. We have no idea what it is and we're so curious. Any ideas? Check 1st comment👇👇

 The Vintage “Jiffy” Knife Sharpener is a handheld, pull-through sharpening tool best known for its simple, quick technique: you draw the knife through the sharpener so the internal steel revolving wheels contact the blade and refresh the cutting edge. Period advertising shows it positioned as an easy-to-use, efficient sharpener for stainless knives.

Official Name

Name on the item: “Jiffy Knife Sharpener”

Many surviving examples are stamped/engraved “Made in England”, which has become a key identifier for collectors.

When It Appeared

The Jiffy sharpener is documented in a newspaper advertisement dated April 21, 1953 (The West Australian), indicating it was already being commercially sold by the early 1950s.

Vintage listings commonly place the tool in the 1950s era, consistent with that advertising record.

Who Created It

The tool is associated with the “Jiffy” brand and manufactured in England (as marked on the product).

Important note: widely circulated examples and period-style listings typically do not consistently identify a specific named inventor or manufacturer beyond the Jiffy branding and Made in England marking.

What It Was Used For

The Jiffy sharpener’s purpose was straightforward: restore cutting performance to everyday kitchen knives, especially stainless steel knives, using a fast, repeatable motion.

How It Worked (Simple Explanation)

The 1953 advertisement describes the core mechanism and method:

Sharpening mechanism: steel revolving wheels

Method: draw the knife through the wheels several times

Result: a “keen edge” (sharper cutting edge)

Typical Step-by-Step Use

Stabilize the sharpener (hold it firmly by the handle).

Insert the blade into the sharpening opening/guide.

Pull the knife through in a smooth motion (heel to tip).

Repeat a few passes until the edge improves (avoid excessive force).

Wipe the blade afterward to remove any fine metal particles.

Why It Mattered in Its Time

Speed and convenience: Designed for people who wanted a functional edge without stones or specialized technique.

Everyday practicality: Marketed as suitable for stainless knives, which were increasingly common in mid-century kitchens.

Collecting and Care Tips

Look for markings: “Jiffy Knife Sharpener” and “Made in England” are commonly cited identifiers.

Check the mechanism: wheels should turn freely without severe wobble.

Preserve the handle: many examples feature a bright, vintage-style handle; condition affects collectability.

Cleaning: use a soft brush and mild cleaner; avoid soaking if the handle or internal assembly could trap moisture.

Best-Use Guidance (Modern Context)

Great for utility kitchen knives where convenience matters.

Use extra caution with premium, thin, or very hard blades (aggressive pull-through systems can remove more material than necessary).