This is a hinged sewing machine key patented on November 21, 1871 by Edward L Gaylord. The patent number is US121096 viewable here:
https://www.google.com/patents/US121096?dq=november+21+1871+key&hl=en&sa=X&ei=pr00Ut6bFMmb2QWAg4CIDg&ved=0CDkQ6AEwAA
Side view of the key:
View showing the patent date of the key:
This antique folding double bit key features a pivotted folding hinge in the middle and two unique bits. The key folds in half and is made of a magnetic metal, probably steel. The hinge also has a brass ring in the middle of it probably for decoration or easier lubrication for its free rotation. There is a ball-like decorations in each shaft.
Key partially folded:
Key full extended:
This very unique Folding Bit Key is believed to have been handmade by a prisoner in New York, probably in a metalworking class. The key is hand hammered and made and features a tapered body. The very unique feature is the bit. Unlikely a normal folding key where the shaft folds in half, the bit on this key folds inwards into the shaft. In this particular key, the bit swings freely. I’ve never seen another one like this and likely never will. It is probably a one of a kind key.
The other side of the key:
The bit retracted:
The bit halfway retracted:
A fairly common antique pocket door key composed of brass with an oval shaped bow that swivels and folds. There are no markings on the key.
Key in folded position:
Another view of the key in a folded position:
The other side of the key:
This key is a fairly common antique pocket door key made of brass. This key utilizes a screw above the bit in the shaft to adjust the length of the key. The screw turns freely and uses pressure on the inner shaft portion that is connected to the bar shaped top to lock the length in place. Although it is hard to see in the pictures, this key does have a unique design element. It features a darker color diamond in the middle of the bar on top.
Image showing screw:
Image showing reverse of key:
Image showing diamond on top:
This is a fairly common style of an antique pocket door key. The top is a propeller shape and the length of the key is adjusted by a screw at the end of the shaft. The construction of the screw mechanism is quite interesting. The key is in 3 pieces: 1 a long shaft connected to the propeller shaped bow with a female screw location inside; 2 a hollow piece with the visible portion of the shaft, the bit, and a larger female screw location on the very tip; and 3 a screw that has a wider section on the end to screw into piece 2 and a narrower section to connect into piece 1. When unscrewed entirely the length of the key can be adjusted and the shaft can even be turned. I apologize for not having pictures up of this feature; but upon request I can take pictures and post them.
Picture illustrating location of screw mechanism:
Picture showing propeller end of key:
Another view of the entire key:
This is a more common antique pocket door key with a round bow and screw to adjust the length of the shaft. The key is made of brass and the screw is a little rusty. No markings on the key.
Picture showing adjusting screw:
Folding Pocket Door Key:
Other side of this key:
One bit contains text “2F2072”:
