This is globe security seal, an 8" long metal band with a metal ball on one end. "REA EXP." and "J-728901" are embossed on the band. REA EXP. was the acronym for the Railroad Express Agency's express service. The seal measures 0.75" (w) x 8" (l).
The bands were used to seal rail car doors. After freight was loaded into a car these bands were placed through the door handles and one end of the band was threaded into a ball at the other end. When the car reached its destination it was inspected by freight yard workers. Removing the band required cutters or snippers. If the seal/band was broken or tampered with then they knew the car may have been opened in transit.
Date: Unable to date security seal at the time of cataloguing. The REA existed from 1917 to 1975; 1946 is in the middle.
Collection
Permanent Collection
Made/Created
Date made
1917 - 1975
Notes
Date: 1946 circa
Lexicon
Nomenclature 4.0
Nomenclature Secondary Object Term
Seal, Railcar
Nomenclature Primary Object Term
Component, Rail Vehicle
Nomenclature Sub-Class
Rail Transportation Accessories
Nomenclature Class
Rail Transportation Equipment
Nomenclature Category
Category 07: Distribution & Transportation Objects
Parts
Count
1
Provenance
Notes
1980-According to note on registration sheet Karen McGuire bought these at a rail fair.
