Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is a fascinating turn-of-the-century brass key tag featuring a patented mechanical clasp mechanism. It was designed as an early lost-and-found recovery system, instructing any finder to open the clasp, reverse the internal label, and drop it in the mail to return the keys to their owner.
Story
In September 1901, this clever brass tag was patented to solve the age-old problem of lost keys. It relied on the honesty of strangers and the efficiency of the post office to reunite owners with their missing keys.
Maker / Origin
While the specific manufacturer is not stamped, this tag represents the golden age of American novelty hardware and patent-frenzy at the turn of the 20th century. Dozens of small brass foundries in manufacturing hubs like Connecticut and Illinois competed to produce these ingenious, pocket-sized security gadgets.
Condition & Value
The brass shows a lovely, authentic golden-brown patina with minor surface oxidation and light pocket wear consistent with age. The mechanical clasp appears intact and functional. Excellent preservation of the stamped lettering keeps this at the higher end of the value range.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.