timof5stars I picked up a brass key that appears to be a Pennsylvania RailRoad key. (I’m a bit skeptical due to the very low price I paid. Looks like it could be authentic but, on a related note, I was at a flea market last weekend. One vendor was selling a “real old, very rare, excellent condition” switch lock (similar to Adlake models). It was stamped with “PRR” and “Signal Dept.”. When I picked it up I was immediately suspicious - it was far lighter than I thought it should be. There was not a single nick, scratch or dent on the entire lock. There were no signs of wear. I pushed back the dust cover and the inside was spotless. He wanted $60 for it. I sat it down and walked away.) Anyway, here are the pictures of the PRR key. Authentic or not? I hope I’m getting better at this. I’d prefer not to add to my pile of reproductions… Thank you for your time. Please let me know if I need to provide additional photos, measurements, etc. [INDENT] [/INDENT]
Paul Prescott As long as it’s not meant to fit a padlock that key looks right to me !! It’s a real key (very often fake cast keys simply would not have worked). That key is cleary designed for mortice lock and was meant to work from both sides of the door. The wear is irregular suggesting that it was only used from one side. The font of the stamps looks old to me. There is patina and wear on the key in the right places. So - I would say it was for a Signal box etc and that it is right.
Pschiffe oldlock wroteAs long as it’s not meant to fit a padlock that key looks right to me !! It’s a real key (very often fake cast keys simply would not have worked). That key is cleary designed for mortice lock and was meant to work from both sides of the door. The wear is irregular suggesting that it was only used from one side. The font of the stamps looks old to me. There is patina and wear on the key in the right places. So - I would say it was for a Signal box etc and that it is right. I’m no expert, but I think it might possibly be a railroad “coach key”? Pete Schifferli [unknown]
Donnie Hi, what the others have said is OK by me…Possibly a door key to one of the various building’s that were around in those day’s. Most collector’s are after the “KNOBBY” key the was used on Fancyback brass padlock’s. Or the key that was used on the Potato lock or Scandi. lock mfg. by Star Lock Co & discontinued in the 1920’s… Either way I think it it genuine PRR & you have a nice key……..Donnie
njsrr This is a coach key used to lock the doors on the old passenger cars. The most common makers mark I have seen on these keys is S&M, Phila. (looks like the mark has worn off)
peerless Either a coach, baggage car or caboose key. I am not sure if the PRR used different bittings for different types of rolling stock. It looks authentic to me.
