Chechem Here is a large key that I bought at an auction. It’s 5″ long, ½″ wide at the bottom, and made of iron (its magnetic). It has a number “1” at the top and a letter “A” below that (see photos). Does anyone know the type key (its function?), when it was likely made, and its value?
Russell Stoner I am of the opinion that this key belonged to an early padlock. More than likely, an American padlock. 1A is probably the size of the padlock. As regards value,,, keys…not my bag of tricks, however it could be a few dollars worth. Regards Russell
Tom Gordon This is obviously a key which is inserted from only one side of the lock but the stem is unneccesarily long for a padlock so it is going to be for a lock that is screwed on the inside of the door or cupboard. Given the number of levercuts that this key has, 1A is most likely to be the keyblank manufacturers blank reference. Russell Stoner wroteI am of the opinion that this key belonged to an early padlock. More than likely, an American padlock. 1A is probably the size of the padlock. As regards value,,, keys…not my bag of tricks, however it could be a few dollars worth. Regards Russell [unknown]
Chechem Tom Gordon wroteThis is obviously a key which is inserted from only one side of the lock but the stem is unneccesarily long for a padlock so it is going to be for a lock that is screwed on the inside of the door or cupboard. Given the number of levercuts that this key has, 1A is most likely to be the keyblank manufacturers blank reference. Any idea of the age? When would such a huge key be used on a door/cupboard? Thanks, guys. [unknown]
Tom Gordon A 4 lever lock would have been a security lock and the length of the key suggests the thickness of the door-a wine cellar maybe? Chechem wroteAny idea of the age? When would such a huge key be used on a door/cupboard? Thanks, guys. [unknown]
Timbo As there is no shoulder on the key stem, and the large diameter of the key stem itself, could this be for a large iron chest maybe ?.
