✅ SOLVED Antique Vending/Arcade Key - How old?

[Natman]

Hi all,

I was detecting at a 100+ year-old home site and dug up this key...I found out it was possibly from a slot or vending machine but have no idea of its age. Thanks in advance for any help or history of the company.

 

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[ANTIQUARIAN]

I found nothing online about the 'Bell Lock Co Chicago'.
But I did find the same key currently for sale on eBay for $10.

"Vintage Bell Lock Key # WW 778 Medart St. Louis -Vending, Arcade, Slot Machine"

I'm thinking your key dates to the 1940s - 50s.
Dave

 

[Red-Coat]

The Bell Lock Company was acquired by the Eagle Lock Company in 1949, and at that time they were based in Michigan City, Indiana not in Chicago. There is reference to them being in Indiana at least as far back as 1946, so the key must be before that date.