Antique Cast Iron Bench-Mounted Tobacco Cutter (Early 1900s)

Description:

A wonderfully original example of an early 20th century bench-mounted tobacco cutter, once used to slice plug and twist tobacco before cigarettes became factory-made. Made from cast iron with its original timber block base, this solid little machine still has a working blade that engages when the handle is pressed down — now stiff with age and character, just as a true workshop relic should be.

These cutters were mounted on a counter or workbench in tobacconists, barbershops and general stores, offering customers a hand-cut measure of tobacco to take away. Today they make striking display pieces with real heritage appeal — equally at home in a gentleman’s den, office or bar.

Details

• Circa: early 1900s (Federation era)
• Material: Cast iron with timber base
• Working mechanism (blade still moves)
• Rustic surface patina consistent with age and use
• Approx. length: 25–30cm

Condition

Timeworn and honest — patina and surface rust consistent with age. Structurally sound and wonderfully tactile.

Deb’s Note

“I love pieces like this — they feel like they’ve lived a full life at a counter or workbench somewhere, serving a hundred small daily rituals. You can almost picture the original shopkeeper pressing the lever while chatting across the counter. A true slice of everyday history.”