Attn: Padlock Collectors Help ID

[quicksilver]

Hi,
I found this American padlock while metal detecting at a campground in Wisconsin. I would like to know the approx. age, historical info and possible use of the lock I found based on its markings. The lock is 2.25" high and 1.5" wide. I don't think it's worth anything, but I would still be interested in the value, even if it is negligible. I hope the photos are sufficient for identification. Thank you.

Matt

Wisconsin

"Store up, treasures in Heaven!"

 

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[Desertdigger]

It is a standard U.S. Government stock padlock, usually ordered in sets of 12 or more with a master key for each set. Used on any space that you wanted to keep control over. I don't remember the price when I was on active duty but it was not much.You could get them with large number of sets master keyed and double and triple master keyed to a series of sets, that way one person could control all spaces with 1 key. The number and letter on the base refers to the set and master key.

 

[quicksilver]

Hi Desertdigger,
Thank you for the info. Do you know of the approx. age of this lock?

Matt

 

[Desertdigger]

Anywhere from WWII to now. They were standard on Navy and Coast guard ships for Ammo lockers or any kind of stowage that the officer in charge did not want pilfered from. I don't know about other Boatswainsmates or first Lt's but my policy upon taking charge of a new billet was to order new locks for everything especially the small arms and tool stowage lockers. I would have maybe 4 dozen sets with 1 master/master and each set with a master. The old locks were usually given to crew for seabag locks. I was actually on one ship where the captain just like the Cain mutiny actually ordered everyone to put his keys on a bucket with their name on them to try to find who had a key to the officers ice cream freezer, of course he never found it because I threw it overboard.

 

[stoney56]

the captain just like the Cain mutiny actually ordered everyone to put his keys on a bucket with their name on them to try to find who had a key to the officers ice cream freezer, of course he never found it because I threw it overboard.

So I assume the Captain was running around 2 scoops short?