Name stamp with zigzag/serrated border

[JohnPW]

Is it possible to roughly date a tool with a maker's or owner's name stamp that has a zigzag or serrated border? Eg, I have a small gouge that has "cast steel" with the zigzag border but no other markings, a gouge with "Moulson Brothers" in a zigzag box. I'm only looking for a general period like late 19th century, mid 20th etc.

I would guess the zigzag border would mean an older tool, possibly 19th C or earlier.

 

[AndyT]

Broadly, yes, a zigzag border can be an indicator of age and in general will suggest an 18th or 19th century date. But don't rely on it alone. There were makers who continued using 'old fashioned' marks for several generations.

For much more detail on this, you need to refer to the books 'British Plane Makers' and the newly published 'British Saws and Saw makers.'