Overview
A pair of flat steel cabinet keys stamped with the code '565,' accompanied by an original Liberty of London swing tag. The tag features the Royal Coat of Arms, signifying the store's prestigious history and Royal Warrant status.
Preliminary identification
Liberty of London Shop Display or Cabinet Keys, c. 1970s–1990s
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
These keys are silent witnesses to the 'Golden Age' of the world's most beautiful department store. Stamped with code 565, they once secured a treasure—perhaps a cabinet of hand-printed Tana Lawn silks or a case of Arts & Crafts jewelry.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1875 by Arthur Lasenby Liberty, the store became the epicenter of the Aesthetic and Arts & Crafts movements. Its iconic building, constructed from the timbers of two ancient warships, remains a landmark of British 'Liberty Style.'
Condition & Value
The keys show minor surface oxidation consistent with age, and the original twine and tag are remarkably well-preserved. The clear graphics on the tag suggest it was kept in a protected environment. Excellent condition for retail ephemera.
Full Research
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
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.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD