Introduction by Jim Casey
Police marked padlocks are highly sought after because of their rarity. This gallery will feature pad locks from my personal collection as well as those submitted by
viewers like you.
The following two photos show a Bureau of Internal Revenue pad lock.
The pad lock had a window that opened and closed over the key hole where a special stamp could be placed. If the lock was
opened the stamp would be broken and signal that the contents had been tampered with. Tobacco and liquor products that had not been labeled with a tax stamp were protected by these locks.
Very rare 19th century U.S. Customs lock with side counter. Counter indicates lock has been opened 40 times. SIGNED U.S.CUSTOMS.PAT NOV,19 1889,MAY 19 1891. Made by Smith and Egge M.F.G. Co. Bridgeport Conn. The side counter has a protective flip lid and then a mica glass to protect the numbers. Made of solid brass.
Group photo of lock, stamps & key.
U.S. Customs Padlock with built in Counter
This padlock was used by the Mendocino County, CA. Sheriff's Office. Sheriff & Mrs. Reno Bartolomie allowed me to photograph this and other items from his long and honored career.
This U.S. Internal Revenue Lock is 2 1/4" wide. Both the lock and key have the same numbers (60406). The lock is made of brass.
