Brass Toilet Door Lock
Name/Title
Brass Toilet Door LockEntry/Object ID
2025.1.988Description
An Antique Brass Door Lock made by ‘Faulkner's, Patent No. 14068. Has address of 50, Newgate, London, presumably Public Toilets where you could ‘Spend a Penny’Context
The "spend a penny" lock is a classic, coin-operated public lavatory door latch. The phrase "spend a penny" derives from the Victorian era when patrons had to insert an old penny (1d) coin into the slot to unlock the cubicle door. The Mechanism: Inserting a penny engaged the locking mechanism. Sliding the internal bolt would switch the external display from "Vacant" to "Engaged" and block further coin entry. Faulkner's Patent: Faulkner (along with other makers like Cero, Lockerbie & Wilkinson, and ETAS) manufactured highly sought-after, heavy-duty brass locks. Patent No. 14068 and the "50 Newgate" address indicate a highly specific antique model originally produced and retailed in the heart of London.Cataloged By
Colin WhittleCategory
Coins, Tokens and Medals or Awards