Rotary Registered Mail padlock

Mail Equipment Shops (USPS) · After 1884

Stamped brass registered mail lock manufactured by the Mail Equipment Shops in Washington, D. C. The case front was marked "REGD U. S. MAIL" by the manufacturer. The shacke front bears a single star. Incorporated into the lock is a counting device that was used to prevent tampering of the mail on route, since the number indicated on the counter had to be recorded before and after every delivery. This style rotary lock replaced the 1884 registered mail lock, which is similar in design.