
'Illegitimi Non Carborundum' Paperweight
$42.00
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$20.00
When times get tough...don't let the bastards grind you down! An extremely appropriate reminder for when you are driving, this humorous and uplifting keychain is made in Rhode Island of lead-free pewter. Includes card explaining the origin of the phrase (see below).
Uncommon Knowledge: The phrase "Illegitimi non carborundum" may look like Latin, but it doesn't exactly translate to "Don't Let the Bastards Grind You Down."
Carborundum is actually the name of an extremely hard mineral (silicon carbide) used for grinding. Illegitimi suggests illegitimate, but it really has no meaning in Latin.
The phrase originated during World War II and is attributed to British army intelligence. It was later adopted by US Army general "Vinegar" Joe Stillwell as his war-time motto.
Also available as a paperweight!
Exclusively for UncommonGoods
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Most Liked Positive Review
A perfect reminder...
I purchased two of these as gifts for my boyfriend and his best friend. They loved them! It's a great addition to their work keys, and also an important reminder when they start...Read complete review
I purchased two of these as gifts for my boyfriend and his best friend. They loved them! It's a great addition to their work keys, and also an important reminder when they start to get stressed out.
I have yet to find anything more creative to hand out as a work related gift, and I'm thrilled that Uncommon Goods had such a unique item!
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Most Liked Negative Review
Not Functional
This keyring fails to perform its intended purpose; to hold keys securely together. I've been using it for a month now and at least once per day end up with a pocket full of...Read complete review
This keyring fails to perform its intended purpose; to hold keys securely together. I've been using it for a month now and at least once per day end up with a pocket full of loose keys. The threaded closure mechanism is poorly designed. Buy the paperweight instead.
Reviewed by 90 customers
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Comments about Illegitimi Non Carborundum Keychain:
I bought one for myself as a reminder to stay strong during stressful draining work days. I bought a second one for a friend who was going through a rough patch. The boxes they came in were slightly torn on the outside. The keychains are well made. Very unique and encouraging!
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Comments about Illegitimi Non Carborundum Keychain:
We gave this to our son on his 16th birthday with keys to his car. He is a WWII history buff and loves Latin so this was a perfect gift. I also love the "road rage" reminder.
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Comments about Illegitimi Non Carborundum Keychain:
Is unique and humorous
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Comments about Illegitimi Non Carborundum Keychain:
Just a little reminder everyday not to let things or people get you down! Unique, very well-made and a real conversation starter
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Comments about Illegitimi Non Carborundum Keychain:
This really helped a friend get through a rough spot!
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Comments about Illegitimi Non Carborundum Keychain:
Holds all my keys and some other items easily. Really liked the screw part. Loosen, on goes everything in order you want. Easy to find in my bag, love weight of grind element, love reading it.
A winner!
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Comments about Illegitimi Non Carborundum Keychain:
I got this for my guy to use for his work keychain, but I'm saving if for Christmas to give it to him. It is thicker and heavier than I was expecting it to be, which might make it prohibitive to carrying it in a pocket. I was a little concerned about the screw-type clasp coming undone, but this one seems tighter than most.
Even if he is unable to use it as a keychain, he can remove the gear and keep it on his desk. I'm sure he'll appreciate the sentiment!
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Comments about Illegitimi Non Carborundum Keychain:
Excellent product and fast shipping.
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Comments about Illegitimi Non Carborundum Keychain:
I bought this for my husband (who is extremely hard to buy for) and he loves it! He's never seen anything like it and it's funny.
The only problem with it is that the gear is so much larger than the key ring! But it works!!
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Comments about Illegitimi Non Carborundum Keychain:
I bought this for a friend going through a rough time, and who also happens to love military history. He absolutely loved getting such a thoughtful gift and now uses it as a daily reminder to keep his head held high.
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Merchant response:Did you the phrase "Illegitimi non carborundum" originated during World War II, and was later adopted by US Army general "Vinegar" Joe Stillwell as his war-time motto? We’re so happy this uplifting keychain helped your friend during tough times, and if he wants to find out more Uncommon Knowledge about this piece, he should check out the product page!