When someone gifts a knife - be it a pocket knife, chef’s blade, or collector's piece - it's common in many cultures to include a coin or a small sum of money, often a penny or a symbolic token. This practice isn't just quirky etiquette; it’s steeped in folklore, superstition, and symbolism that spans centuries and cultures.
The Core Belief: Preventing the Severing of the Relationship
At the heart of the tradition is the symbolic association of a knife with cutting. Since a blade’s purpose is to cut, divide, or separate, the act of giving one as a gift can carry an unintended superstition: that the knife may metaphorically “cut the bond” between the giver and the recipient - whether it's a friendship, romantic relationship, or family tie.
To “neutralise” this symbolic cut, the recipient is asked to return a coin - even something as small as a penny. This token transaction turns the gift into a purchase, breaking the superstition by reframing the exchange. The idea is that a bought knife cannot sever the relationship, because it was not freely given.
Historical and Cultural Roots
This tradition appears in many parts of the world, including:
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Europe (especially in the UK and Scandinavia): The phrase "A knife cuts love" or "A gift of a blade cuts ties" is found in various folk sayings. In some Scandinavian countries, this tradition is still widely practiced.
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China: Gifting sharp objects like knives or scissors is traditionally seen as bad luck, as they symbolize a desire to sever a relationship. Including a coin remedies this.
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Japan: Similar beliefs exist, especially with ceremonial or heirloom blades. A coin or small fee given in return maintains harmony.
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Western Countries: Among knife collectors and enthusiasts in the US and UK, the coin tradition is often practiced as both a superstition and a mark of respect for the gift.
What Kind of Coin?
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It doesn’t have to be valuable - a single penny, small coin, or symbolic currency is enough.
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Often, the giver attaches the coin to the knife or includes it in the box with a small note explaining the tradition.
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The recipient then gives the coin back, symbolizing a "purchase" rather than a gift.
Modern Interpretations
Today, even people who don’t believe in superstitions often honour the tradition out of respect, especially in knife-making, hunting, bushcraft, and culinary communities. It adds a personal, thoughtful touch to the gifting process and keeps alive a piece of heritage.
For some, it's just a fun way to acknowledge the seriousness of the gift - after all, giving a knife isn’t trivial. It’s often a gesture of trust, skill, or even rite of passage.
Summary
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Why it’s done: To avoid symbolically “cutting” the relationship between giver and receiver.
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How it works: The recipient gives a coin in return, transforming the gift into a transaction.
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Cultural origin: Found in European, Asian, and American traditions with roots in folklore and symbolism.
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Modern relevance: Still observed today in knife-gifting circles and among those who value tradition and superstition.