Hobbies And Interests
Skeleton Keys
The most common old-fashioned keys are known as "skeleton keys." With a strong, solid round shaft and a sometimes ornate handle, skeleton keys are quite recognizable. The locking end of a skeleton key has only a double or single notch at the end so they are very easy to duplicate, and one key can typically open many locks. By far the most interesting part of old-fashioned skeleton keys is the bow or handle. Sometimes ornate designs define one company's key from another's or give clues about its age or place of origin.
Other Old-Fashioned Keys
Although the majority of old-fashioned keys collectors will find are skeleton keys, several other types exist. Old-fashioned "barrel keys" are very similar in appearance to skeleton keys. With closer inspection, however, the difference becomes obvious. Barrel keys share the look of skeleton keys, with simple notches on the lock and long cylindrical shafts, but a barrel key's hollow shaft makes it much lighter. Barrel keys are also typically shorter than skeleton keys. Collectors also look for old-fashioned "flat keys." These thin metal keys were quite small and used often for trunks or padlocks. Flat keys also may have stamped numbers, which makes identification somewhat easier.
Collecting Old-Fashioned Keys
The quirky charm of old-fashioned keys captures the hearts of collectors. The history they carry and the lively community of collectors around the world keep enthusiasts engaged in the market. To begin an old-fashioned key collection, you must decide why you want to collect them. Some collectors like to make jewelry out of keys or use them for decorative purposes. Others prefer to amass keys from a particular era or region. Regardless of why they collect, collectors know where to look for old-fashioned keys. Many key dealers attend flea markets and antique fairs. General second-hand shops and junk shops also may have small collections of keys. For the beginner, less specialized shops may be a good place to begin because keys may be significantly cheaper, offering the opportunity to start your collection without a large monetary investment.
Pricing Antique Keys
After a collector is collecting old-fashioned keys in earnest, pricing becomes an area of interest. At some point, collectors will also wish to sell or trade parts of their collection to further specialize or enhance the total value of their lot. Pricing for old-fashioned keys is determined by the key's age, condition, the current market value of the metal in its construction and its design. Standard skeleton keys cost between $1 and $20 on auction sites and from specialty retailers. Smaller barrel keys and cabinet keys often sell in batches of five or more for about $20. More expensive old-fashioned keys have ornate bows and sell for more than $100 on the auction and online market. Keys, sold in lots of 20 to more than 100, may be priced between $100 and $200. Old-fashioned keys with higher values are those with a known, documented history and those which are particularly old.