Old brass suitcase lock or what?

uko

Hi, I am not a collector, but it happened to get this lock from a bazaar in Athens, Greece. I really don’t know if this is a lock or handcuff. The only thing I know is that it is made of brass (bronze) and it has the initials ED stamped on it. Could somebody help me with information and value? Thanks

oldbiscuit

I’m no expert, but from what I’ve read I believe that’s a bag lock. Mail bags and duffle bags had gromets that you would feed the rod thru then close and secure with a padlock.If someone else has a different explaination please feel free to add it . Mark

Parautoptic

oldbiscuit wrote
I’m no expert, but from what I’ve read I believe that’s a bag lock. Mail bags and duffle bags had gromets that you would feed the rod thru then close and secure with a padlock.If someone else has a different explaination please feel free to add it . Mark

I would concur… the one shown here is different to all the others I have seen in that the straight bar swings left/right rather than up /down.

Used on military kit bags for sure, and probably others too.

Attached images of three in my collection, I have seen many of the brass “D” shaped ones with various markings, the steel one is the only square one I have seen.

Value? I have never paid more than a pound for one, but I have seen them at collectors fairs for up to eight pounds. I was not tempted!

[unknown]

Brian Morland MLA Hon

A page from the Josiah Parkes catalouge issued a the time of the great war (1914-18)