[QUOTE=safeman;29922]
Quote Originally Posted by Marmite47 View Post


Narrow pointed tweezers or maybe even a magnet might do the trick or, if the bit of the key is in line with the opening tapping with a light hammer on the front plate might encourage it to move outwards.

Milner's grades begin with a List 1 which is a top opening fire-resisting chest in various sizes.
Next is your List 2 which is a fairly standard Document Safe for general commercial purposes, solicitors, church records etc. The List 3 has metal bands enclosing the body plates and a heavier bolt-on lockcase inside the door. and intended for the protection of cash as well as fire. This then progresses up through Lists 4, and 5 to the Bankers Grade.
When yours was made at the turn of the Century most bodies were square on all sides but then progressed to bodies that were bent on all corners from one piece of steel making them more resistant to bursting open if falling among burning debris.
Thanks for all your help and information. I'll try the options re the broken key. The safe has been delivered to my brothers for 'safe' keeping!