Rankin Leg Irons

Here is a recent auction for a pair of Rankin Leg Irons. Seems that prices are drifting down...

Leg irons from the US Civil War era, manufactured by Andrew Rankin of Philadelphia about 1861: the correct historical stampings are present on both shackles, but are only partially and very faintly visible, as shown in the photos. Condition and dimensions shown in photos. Both locks are in full and correct working order, with no evidence of the damage sometimes seen from old escape attempts. The key is a modern Hiatt key which has been re-machined to fit. Instructions can be provided on proper lock operation, which is essential to know. On Sep-23-13 at 07:39:41 PDT, seller added the following information: On further testing, I find the internal spring on one lock is weaker than it should be, but the lock still appears to function. Also the key has to be used carefully as it is not a perfect fit. - eBay (29 Sept 2013)

This set of Leg Irons had a high bid of $305 (Plus $12.35 Shipping).
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Rankin Handcuffs

Here is a nice set of Rankin Handcuffs.

A super early pair of steel Handcuffs in excellent condition with nice patina. They have the original key and work well. Fresh from an Early Estate Here in Pa. Cuffs do not pull open when locked..... - eBay (20 Feb 2012)

This set of cuffs had a high bid of $499.99 (Plus $5.65 Shipping).
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Rankin Leg Irons

A very nice set of Rankin Leg Irons.

A. Rankin leg irons, civil war era. Both locks open and lock with original key. Great condition! - eBay (3 Feb 2012)

This set of Rankin Leg Irons had a 'Buy-it-Now' price of $500 (Plus $15 Shipping).
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1861 Rankin Handcuff

Nice set of handcuffs. Unfortunately more evidence that the price erosion for all things collected is continuing. Or is that called deflation? At any rate, a very nice price for this set of cuffs.

Vintage 1861 Rankin Handcuff small size.Got these on a trade from a felow collector but i have one so this is your chance to have one for your collection.Comes with the key - eBay (10/29/2011)

This set of handcuffs had a 'Buy-it-Now' price of $500 (Plus free Shipping).

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1861 Rankin Handcuffs

This is a nice set of handcuffs. I am wondering why the bidding didn't get higher, or did the reputation of one Canadian handcuff seller contaminate this auction? (There is one Canadian handcuff collector who apparently does not complete deals)

Good working pair of 1861 Rankins.This is my second pair of small size so this pair is up for bids. NO over sea bidding. - eBay (20 Oct 2011)

This set of handcuffs had a high bid of $400 (Plus free Shipping) but did not meet the reserve price.
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DELESTATIUS - MADE BY RANKIN PHILA W/KEY PAT. DEC 1O 1861

this is a nice set of cuffs. Too bad they can be forced open. Not that you would do that to an antique!

VERY RARE CUFFS DELESTATIUS MADE BY RANKIN, PHILA WITH KEY CAN BE OPENED WITHOUT KEY

PLEASE ASK ANY QUESTIONS THAT YOU MAY HAVE

AS TOLD TO ME BY A KNOWLEDGEABLE eBAYER. THX - eBay (17 Oct 2011)

This set of cuffs had a high bid of $1,000 (Plus free Shipping).

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Leg Irons - Rankin Style

This is a rare set of leg irons. However, it is in such bad condition that it did not find a buyer at the asking price. Look at it this way, once the prices start getting to $400 and higher, buyers that have that money are also willing to pay more for items in better condition.

Antique leg irons in the style of Rankin. We do not have the screw key, but they are unlocked (they close and will pull open). There are no markings. Overall length is 22 ½”. Cuffs are approximately 4” by 4 ½” by ¾” thick.

Leg irons have patina and marks consistent with use and age. Surface rust. Last link on one end of chain has break. Please see photos for condition. If you have any questions, or would like more photos, please ask before the last day of the auction. - eBay (3 Feb 2011)

This set of leg irons had an opening bid of $400 (Plus $5.20 Shipping) but failed to receive any bids.
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Authentic Antique A. Rankin Handcuffs

Here is another set of Rankin handcuffs. Appears that it might have been repaired and maybe that is why there was a lack of interest.

Up for sale is a pair of authentic antique A. Rankin handcuffs.

These cuffs were patented in 1866. This is the "small size" version.

They have the patented "A. Rankin Phila" markings on them as well as a "Patent Dec 10th" marking.

The locks and springs of these cuffs are completely intact. When trying to pull apart in locked position one of the bows will come apart when locked. I believe that one side of these cuffs were repaired many many years ago on hinge, please look closely at the pictures.

These cuffs are in good shape.

They do come with the original key.

These would be an excellent addition to anyones collection. - eBay (31 Dec 2010)

This set of handcuffs had an opening bid of $800 (Plus $10.95 Shipping) but appears to have had no takers.
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A. Rankin Handcuffs

This is a nice set of cuffs. As of yet, I do not own a pair.

What we have for sale is an authentic antique set of A. Rankin handcuffs. These cuffs were patented in 1866. This is the "small size" version. They have the patented "A. Rankin Phila" markings on them as well as a "Patent Dec 10th 186" marking. The locks and springs of these cuffs are completely intact. When trying to pull apart in locked position they do not come apart. For as old as these restraints are they are in pretty good shape. They do come with the original key. These would be an excellent addition to anyones collection. If anyone would like more pictures, please contact me and I will accomodate you. Also, any and all questions are welcome. I spoke with a collector to make sure as to give a factual listing. - eBay (14 Nov 2010)

This set of cuffs had a high bid of $865.50 (Plus $9.95 Shipping).
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1860S A. RANKIN PHILA HANDCUFFS

I had my eye on this set of handcuffs until the price shot well past my limit in the final moments, especially given that they are not proven to be fully-functioning.

ORIGINAL A. RANKIN PHILA HANDCUFFS. DATED DEC. 10 1861 OR 1866. THE DATE IS A LITTLE WORN BUT LOOK LIKE 1861.THIS IS A VERY NEAT PAIR OF HANDCUFFS MADE OF HEAVY METAL POSSIBLY IRON..THE PATINA IS JUST WONDERFUL.THEY HAVE A FLAT BOTTOM WITH A HALF LOOP TO ALLOW YOUR FINGER TO BE INSERTED FOR AID IN OPENING THE CUFFS. THEY ARE STAMPED A. RANKIN PHILA AND HAS THE PATENT DATE WHICH I HAVE QUOTED ABOVE. THEY HAVE THE ORIGINAL KEY BUT I CANNOT GET THEM OPEN. PERHAPS A CERTAIN WAY TO TURN. I DO NOT KNOW.SO I HAVENT HAD THEM OPENED. THE KEY DOES SCREW IN AND OUT FREELY. THESE ARE IN WONDERFUL CONDITION AND HAVE BEEN WELL TAKEN CARE OF. THEY HAVE BEEN STORED IN AN OLD TRUNK FOR ALL THESE YEARS IN AN ATTIC. THESE LOOK AWFUL SMALL. I'M SURE THERE WILL BE NO WIGGLING YOUR WAY OUT OF THESE BABIES.THE DATE MAY NOT BE WORN POSSIBLY WAY IT WAS STAMPED AT TIME. A REMARKABLE PAIR OF HANDCUFFS. - eBay (18 April 2010)

This set of cuffs had a high bid of $922 (Plus $12.55 Shipping).
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ORIGINAL VINTAGE HANDCUFFS (A. RANKIN, PHILA.)

Here is a nice set of Rankin handcuffs.

This is a pair of original old handcuffs. Has "A. Rankin" on them and a patent number. From end to end they measure 10". I don't know what else to say about these. They are from my late husband collection. - eBay (13 Feb 2010)

This set of handcuffs had a high bid of $716.67 (Plus $5.15 Shipping).
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Rankin Handcuffs

Here is a nice set of Rankin handcuffs:

Excellant pair of handcuffs from the Civil war period not sure of the exact date because the patent date 186 and the last number is missing on the both cuffs. Has the maker as A.Rankin Philadelphia. These are not reproductions but original. They do have the original Key to open them. Any questions please ask. - eBay (11 Jan 2010)

This set of handcuffs had a high bid of $1,085 (Plus $7 Shipping).
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Rankin Handcuffs

Here is a set of Rankin handcuffs. I take it that they can be opened that they are either broken or the are somehow stuck open. But the fact that they do not lock shut is probably not a good sign.

A super early pair of handcuffs in excellent condition. looks like Hank Phila Pat Date Dec. 1861 Stamped on the cuff Side hole for a key. A Great early pair of cuffs.

Questions and answers about this item

Q: the maker of the cuff is Rankin i have a set dan
A: Hi Dan, Thanks for the info. Bob

Q: I read the question and answer to the last question. Are you saying they don't lock? and could you include a picture of them in the open position. Thanks.
A: Hi I have someone who does my ebay I dont have access to the camera. I am assumining you have to have the key to lock them as they are in the unlocked position. Thanks for Looking and good Luck, Bob

Q: Is there a key? It looks like one of the cuffs is partically open. If you pull on opposite sides of the lock will the cuffs pull open? Thanks
A: Hi, No key, Both cuffs are open..Thanks for Looking and Good Luck, Bob

- eBay (26 Oct 2009)

This set of handcuffs had a high bid of $710 (Plus $5.20 Shipping).
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VINTAGE BRASS HANDCUFFS BY A. RANKIN

This is an amazing price for a set of rare handcuffs.

SOLID BRASS HAND CUFFS EARLY 1800'S BY A. RANKIN. IT HAS A KEY AND WORKS FINE. MEASURES 8" LONG. THE CUFFS ARE 3" IN DIAMETER. 4" LONG. - eBay (19 Oct 2009)

This set of handcuffs had a high bid of $5,200 (Plus $4.95 Shipping).
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