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Object Timeline

1924

  • Work on this object began.

1925

  • Work on this object ended.

1987

  • We acquired this object.

2015

2025

  • You found it!

Padlock Key (USA)

This is a Padlock key. It was invented by Frank Ellison Best and manufactured by Best Lock Company. It is dated 1924–25 and we acquired it in 1987. Its medium is brass and steel. It is a part of the Product Design and Decorative Arts department.

Cite this object as

Padlock Key (USA); Invented by Frank Ellison Best; Manufactured by Best Lock Company (United States); brass and steel; 1987-88-1-a/c

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If you would like to cite this object in a Wikipedia article please use the following template:

<ref name=CH>{{cite web |url=https://www-4.collection.cooperhewitt.org/objects/18623121/ |title=Padlock Key (USA) |author=Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum |accessdate=12 February 2025 |publisher=Smithsonian Institution}}</ref>