Very Large Brass Key: ID and Age, Please?

[wlwhittier]

Well...there are many keys with holes in the end, to accept pins within the lock. You all will know what the nomenclature appropriate for such features are.

So the key I have may have been available in a 'blank' configuration, with hole; the need for such a hole, if absent, would leave opportunity for plugging the hole. I'm guessing, obviously...

Regarding Lock and Key Anatomy: is there a site (or a page in this forum) where such fundamental information can be found? It is somewhat embarrassing to stumble over descriptive specifics in near complete ignorance.

wlw

[Huw Eastwood]

wlw, the configuration of your key is that of a warded rim key.
If, it is a working/useable key, then it is clearly intended for double sided operation since it has the tell-tale symmetrically cut bit, and a collar to act as a stop.

The keys you are referring to with a hole in the end are called pipe keys in the UK and barrel keys in the USA. They are only for single sided operation and do not need collars to act as stop.

The length of your key suggests a rim key to fit a surface mounted lock but it could be for mortise operation as well. It has the characteristics of a warded rim key.

You are barking up the wrong tree with your idea of the key being available in all configurations for all eventualities, with the hole provided up the end and being blanked off etc.
Such keys are either of one type or the other, you dont get "male pin with collar combined female pipe/barrel for single-double sided operation etc all rolled into a single key.

[BBE]

Well...there are many keys with holes in the end, to accept pins within the lock. You all will know what the nomenclature appropriate for such features are.

So the key I have may have been available in a 'blank' configuration, with hole; the need for such a hole, if absent, would leave opportunity for plugging the hole. I'm guessing, obviously...

Regarding Lock and Key Anatomy: is there a site (or a page in this forum) where such fundamental information can be found? It is somewhat embarrassing to stumble over descriptive specifics in near complete ignorance.

wlw

Your key may very well be a house key, large brass and bronze keys were very popular in the US from the early 1700's until the late 1800's and you can even get some new Baldwin hardware today that uses them. The cap you mention was sometimes used on barrel keys to keep dust out of the drilled end that went over the post(pin you called it) in a lock. The design of your key would be unusual for a barrel key but it is possible.

Anatomy wise, the flag is sometimes called that but more often called a 'bit'. The handle is the 'bow'. The part the flag is attached to is also called the post, but of the key. There is a 'stop' on your key which prevents the key going too far into the lock and between it and the bow is the 'shank'. That is a somewhat truncated anatomy but should help you understand what we may be talking about.
BBE.

[wlwhittier]

huw:

"...clearly intended for double sided operation..."

I see that the bit is symmetrical, but only along the length of the post; one side of the bit is relieved nearest the post, and on both ends...but not on the other side. I'm confused (obviously) about what double sided operation means: is it that the key will function (open or close) the lock when turned either way?

Then, as I easily accept your argument that the key was not a 'universal' blank, I have to ask what purpose the apparent capped barrel serves: why the tightly capped hole? The cap cannot be easily removed; I haven't tried very hard, but fingers won't do the trick. Needing some tool for cap removal when the key was to be inserted, not to mention the potential for loss of such a small item...seems a clumsy stretch, to me.

Also, can you (or others) estimate a value for this key?

Thank you for the anatomy lesson, and your continued interest! wlw

[wlwhittier]

Anatomy wise, the flag is sometimes called that but more often called a 'bit'. The handle is the 'bow'. The part the flag is attached to is also called the post, but of the key. There is a 'stop' on your key which prevents the key going too far into the lock and between it and the bow is the 'shank'. That is a somewhat truncated anatomy but should help you understand what we may be talking about.
BBE.

BBE...Thanks for your illuminating descriptions of the anatomy of keys. I'll try to become better informed.

wlw

[mercury]

Double sided operation means the key is made to be able to operate the lock from both sides of the door.

...Mark

[wlwhittier]

Double sided operation means the key is made to be able to operate the lock from both sides of the door.

...Mark

Thank you, Mercury...now I understand! wlw

[wlwhittier]

Patent...

Very good illustration. All is now clear.

eBay has shown several similar to mine sold, usually with their lockset, for not very much money.

I gave $2 for this, and so I'll keep it.

Thank you each & all, sincerely, for your time and comments. I am ver' grateful! wlw

[Syd Waterman]

[QUOTE=BBE;26281]Your key may very well be a house key, large brass and bronze keys were very popular in the US from the early 1700's until the late 1800's QUOTE]

Hi . BBE is quite correct . Attached image from the Mallory Wheeler & Company 1871 catalogue illustrates a style of lock with a similar key to your example .

Patent.