Vintage English Coffin Smoothing Plane c. 1920-1940 | Small Beech Woodworking Tool

For the craftsman … a compact English coffin-style smoothing plane measuring 5-3/4 inches in length and dating to roughly 1920–1940. Formed in well-aged beech and fitted with its original iron stamped “British Made,” this small plane shows an even, honest patina from decades of use. Its balanced proportions, deep surface tone, and straightforward working character make it equally suited to display on a gentleman’s desk or kept close at hand in the workshop.

Planes of this size were everyday tools for cabinetmakers, joiners, and shop craftsmen in the interwar period, used for final surface finishing, trimming small components, and refining joints after heavier planes had done the main work. The traditional coffin form—wider at the waist and tapering toward both ends—had been standard in English workshops for generations and was still favored in the early 1900s for its comfortable grip and balanced feel in the hand. Compact planes like this were often kept close at hand for delicate fitting work where control and accuracy mattered most.

Dimensions: 5-3/4” x 2” x 3-1/8” (not including iron)
Weight: 11.0 oz.

Condition notes: Very good vintage condition overall. Beechwood stock displays even surface wear and scattered small marks consistent with age and long workshop use, with no structural cracks or losses noted. Steel iron shows light surface patina and appears reasonably sharp but has not been sharpened or tested in use. Wedge fits securely, and iron seats properly within body and locks firmly in position.  Wedge and iron may be removable for sharpening but this has not been attempted.  Plane has been lightly cleaned and waxed. Other items in photos not included.

Unless noted, all items are hand-wrapped and gift-boxed. We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15. Orders over $100 ship free via USPS Priority Mail — any shipping charges for orders over $100 will be refunded after checkout. We pack with safety and care using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible.

Sorry, no returns or cancellations.  Please view all photos for more detail and feel free to contact the shop with any questions prior to purchase.