Handcuff
Object number2011.127.90
Dateafter 1879
MediumMetal, (nickel?) plating
Credit LineGift of Pittsburgh Police Historical Association
DescriptionNickel(?)-plated handcuffs with curved cuffs. Connected by three rings with the one in the center being slightly twisted.Dimensions0.687 x 4.5 x 8.75 in. (1.7 x 11.4 x 22.2 cm)MarksIllegible patent info stamped near the keyhole.
Historical NotesW. V. Adams introduced the adjustable ratchet principle to handcuffs in his patent of June 17, 1862. John J. Tower established his company in 1865, and introduced a series of handcuffs initially built under license of both the Adams and Orson C. Phelps patents. This is a Tower Double Lock Handcuff that was patented on August 19, 1879, and has a much more sophisticated lock mechanism. Part of the Pittsburgh Police Historical Association collection.
Related institution
Pittsburgh Bureau of Police
On View
On view
Smith & Wesson
Smith & Wesson
c. 1899