Description

Superb & Rare Leonard Bailey’s Victor No. 12¼ Nickel-Plated Pocket Block Plane

Circa 1879–1884
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Offered here is an exceptional example of the elusive Victor No. 12¼, produced by Leonard Bailey. during his brief but brilliant post-Stanley era in Hartford, Connecticut. Manufactured between 1879 and 1884, this block plane is widely considered the rarest of the Victor No. 12 series and is distinguished by its fully nickel-plated body—a premium feature seldom seen in the wild.

This specimen features Bailey’s ingenious April 30, 1878 patented cutter adjustment, a hallmark of his constant innovation in toolmaking. Its compact form and refined mechanical elegance showcase Bailey’s engineering excellence and craftsmanship legacy.

Collectors prize the No. 12¼ not only for its scarcity but also for the historical weight it carries. Few tools encapsulate Bailey’s independent vision with such finesse. This particular example retains its period character, with partial nickel plating that speaks to careful preservation.

A cornerstone piece for any serious collection—an opportunity seldom seen.