I just found this site & am grateful!

Maternal Grandfather was motorcycle officer in San Francisco, CA 1920's. I have become the family historian & so have whatever "souvenirs" are left from his law enforcement career.

Thanks to this site, I have identified the only handcuffs I have as Pratt's Combination Model 1 "nippers". They are in very good condition, a little dirty but they are marked "Pratt's Combination patented Nov 7-16 Other Pats Pend'g" on one side & "165B" on the other. What does this second marking mean?

They are in working order with original key as well as his original leather case from his belt.

Does anyone have a rough idea of their value?

They have great familial value as I remember him relating a story about one time he used them - Some miscreant was going around, slashing the tires of the motorcycle officers' Harley Davidsons...Grandpa caught him and, using the come along cuffs, marched him on tip-toe to the station. I wonder how far & how many hills were involved! I've always been able to picture this!

Grandpa died in March of 1978, aged 75. I have some other pieces of his equipment, does anyone know where I can learn about some of these other pieces?

This is a fascinating site - Thank you for your help!

Mary-It would be very helpful if you could post some pictures. Pratts are very collectible and condition will mean a lot in determining the value. Most of the Pratts that I have seen at auction have been in great condition and have sold for $650 to $800. Sounds like your grandfather was quite a guy. Great memories!

Hi Mary:
Could the 165B on the other side actually be 1658 ? There is usually a serial number on the opposite side, and 1658 would be a serial number that would be correct for that model Pratt.
Stan
www.handcuffsandbadges.com

I don't think I have seen a Pratt go for less than $700.00 before. Given the fact that it is the 1st model, has the original key, AND and original pouch, I would guess it is worth closer to $1,000.00 to the right buyer. This is dependent upon the condition as well; I am assuming that it is in good working condition with no visable damage. I would love to see some pictures of it.

Cheers, Mike

yes the number on the back is the serial # i own serial #111B the NOV 7-16
IS THE PATENT DATE (NOV 7th, 1916) value dependent appond condition
$500-$1500 would also like to see photo's thanks (^_^)

Mary, please be sure to post pictures of the original key..