Old Combination Padlock - 1901?

Here is another rare combination padlock.

A VERY RARE BRASS COMBINATION PADLOCK. I DO NOT KNOW WHO MADE IT, THE ONLY MARKS ARE THE PAT. DATE JULY 16, 01. THE LOCK WORKS FINE BUT THE MECHANISM IS SLOPPY FROM WEAR. THE BODY IS IN GOOD SHAPE BUT THE COMBINATION WHEELS HAVE MANY DENTS. - eBay

How rare? Well, this lock went for $150 (Plus $3 in shipping.) So I would say that it is rare enough.

If I had to guess, I would say that this lock was made for a specific purpose. Although what purpose exactly escapes me.

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