While researching some patents, I noticed #1,851,206 by E.E. Neal dated 3/29/32. This key's tip looks like what would be used with a Tower's Bean (or similar) as that the key features 2 bits near the tip, and it also shows a trefoil shaped head. Curiously enough though, in the very next patent, (#1,851,207 also by E.E. Neal, 3/29/32) illustrates the style key used in the first models, (the solid post, single bitted key). Perhaps I'm gravely mistaken, but I thought that the solid post key was discontinued around 1932/33 in favor of the "barrel style" key of the present. Why would it be in a patent drawing at the same time it's being phased out? Can anyone shed some light on this? Also did Peerless ever actually produce a version with a "2 bitted" style key?
Most of Neal's patents were not made. He seemed to be obsessed with designing handcuffs and patenting them so he had the sole rights to his ideas.
If he was lucky enough for someone to buy his patent, then good, but it seems that not all his design were worth making.