Yes, the safe was working before the dial came out, but I don't know if somebody in the past had been into the works of it. I purchested it from a friend probably 40 years ago. My wifes jewelry is in it along with things I have forgoten abut. It has become a challenge to get it open now.

I assumed that the threaded, keyed shaft attached to the dial had a nut on the end that fell off, but I see that is not true. The dial still slides into the hole but I don't think it’s turning the lock wheels. the key must have fallen out. Since it’s been a while I have also lost the combination.