What is a Durham Duplex in VG-EX cond. worth?

[Emmett]

I found one locally for 8.50. I have no personal interest in owning one, but if this is a desired collectible and a good price I thought I'd snatch it up for some lucky soul to have via the BST.

Edit: after looking at photos online (I regrettably did not have my camera with me), this appears to be a somewhat different different specimen. The tang was marked "US Army Issue" and the blade holder did not have the safety combs. In addition, the scales were stamped "NOT FOR SALE". Forget pricing--does anyone have more info and what this might be?

 

[82R100]

The Durham Duplex (assuming you're referring to the folding "straight razor" style) needs one of two parts to hold the blade in place: either a safety comb or a "stropping attachment" which is sort of "J" shaped in cross-section and allows it to be used in a more similar style to a true straight. The blade is sandwiched between the comb/attachment and the razor arm. There are two spring tabs integral with the comb/attachment that reach through the slotted holes in the blade and engage the razor arm.

There are many "demonstrator" models out there that were never for retail sale and which had sort of heavy green scales to them. I can't say as I've seen a military issue one before. Due to the relatively large quantity of DD's that show up on eBay and the relatively small demand, their market value is typically really low.

Blade availability is an issue, the most readily available blades being marketed for carpet cutters at home improvement stores.

- Chris

[Edit: Here's one that I got on eBay a few months ago. The stropping attachment's in the upper right pocket of the leather roll.]

 

[D.Irving79]

not much. but depending on the handle design, some go for a lot.