Old Yale/Y&T lock

[lenmac65]

Found an old Yale padlock about 2 or 3 inches down in an old farm field. My first lock, which will make for a nice shed decoration. Rang up loud and clear. Stamped Yale & Towne Mfg. Co., and Stamford Conn. USA, on lock handle. I am thinking early 1900's, but I am not sure. Any ideas? Thanks for the insights. Happy Hunting.

 

[river roamer]

Nice find Congrats

 

[HIGHSTRUNG]

Congrats!

 

[lenmac65]

How old it is? Usually, these locks are often made by skilled locksmiths in the past and possess a level of craftsmanship and artistry that is hard to find in today's mass-produced locks. Locksmith Castelnau, who has experience working with antique locks, can attest to their value as not only functional pieces but also as decorative items.

Not sure of age. There are no patent or manufacturing dates to give a clue. I was guessing early 1900s. I did not do any additional research or restoration. I have displayed the lock in my shed these past few years, along with other locks I have since found, horseshoes, axes, etc.

 

[boogeyman]

I wish I was smart enough to do all that, as it would be nice to restore this item and maybe get it working somehow. Thanks for the tips .. maybe someday I will work up the courage to tinker with the lock.

You can do it! These are good locks to start on and the few parts needed are easy and cheap to find if you mess up.

 

[boogeyman]

Not sure of age. There are no patent or manufacturing dates to give a clue. I was guessing early 1900s. I did not do any additional research or restoration. I have displayed the lock in my shed these past few years, along with other locks I have since found, horseshoes, axes, etc.

Do some Google searches for "The Padlock Collector". The later printing has way more info. Pretty much the bible of collecting. Gives prices at the time of printing to go from too.