An interesting mid-sized iron strong box with the required visual presence of steadfast security, this is good example of these sought-after uncommon artifacts of yesteryear. Made of the heaviest iron construction by European craftsmen, these chests ended up in the possession of governments and individuals everywhere as safe containment for valuables, whether it was money made through exploration, commercial endeavors and payrolls. Once loaded, it would be incredibly difficult to move the heavy iron box.
This iron strongbox has a hearty presence with its "Fleur de Lis" influenced motif of sweeping curves, a grid of wide iron bands and hard riveted bolts. Its exterior had been once painted with black enamel, and now has a lacquer coating for preservation. The key fits the hidden escutcheon in the lid, under an iron plate that swivels, and triggers the 9 striker bolts which are the chest's primary security. The interior locking mechanism is laid out in an interesting pattern that works the levers in sequence. The deepest parts of the chest are separated by a internal hard brace, and it has an arm bar to prop the lid in the open position. A false escutcheon on the face of the chest between the pair of vertical iron hasps which could fasten two additional padlocks.
