Unlock History: Rare Antique Handcuffs Now Available at Michael Griffin's Old Handcuffs Shop
A New Treasure Trove: Michael Griffin's Old Handcuffs Shop
Cash Paid For Antique Handcuffs
In the shadowy and thrilling world of escape artistry, few names resonate as profoundly as Michael Griffin's. Known for his Houdini-esque escapes and a profound reverence for the historical underpinnings of his craft, Griffin has long married his passion for performance with an equally intense dedication to historical preservation. For over 30 years, his venture, OldHandcuffs.net, has served as a beacon for collectors, historians, and enthusiasts, offering a rare glimpse into the art of restraint's storied past. It's a place where the handcuffs and leg irons that once symbolized confinement are transformed into artifacts of intrigue and narratives of resilience.
The Old Handcuffs Shop: A Legacy Continued
The Old Handcuffs Shop (www.oldhandcuffs.net/shop) isn't just a business; it's a curated museum where history is tangible, and every item tells a story. Griffin's expertise and passion breathe life into this unique collection, making it a premier destination for those seeking to own a piece of history. The recent addition of new items to the catalog is a testament to Griffin's ongoing commitment to expanding and sharing this remarkable collection.
Newly Listed Gems
Among the standout pieces newly listed in the shop, the Romer's Leg Irons from 1880 evoke a bygone era, offering a stark glimpse into the methods and materials of restraint used in the late 19th century. The Rankin Civil War Handcuffs not only serve as a reminder of the tumultuous times of the American Civil War but also highlight the craftsmanship and design of restraint devices used during that period.
The Mattatuck WW1 Handcuffs stand out for their historical significance, being the very design from which Houdini himself taught American troops the art of escape. This piece bridges the gap between practical utility and performance art, embodying the strategic use of escape techniques in wartime.
Also featured are exceptional examples of early 1900s British transport handcuffs and leg irons, showcasing the evolution of restraint mechanisms across the pond. These artifacts offer a window into the design preferences and security concerns of British law enforcement agencies during the early 20th century.
A rare addition to the collection is the 1934 FBI Super Handcuffs, manufactured by the renowned H&R Arms. These handcuffs represent a unique intersection of law enforcement needs and industrial ingenuity, reflecting the continuous evolution of security devices.
First Come, First Served: A Unique Opportunity
The listing of these items and more in the Old Handcuffs Shop offers a unique opportunity for collectors, historians, and enthusiasts to acquire a piece of history. Given the rarity and historical value of these artifacts, they are available on a first-come, first-served basis, making it imperative for interested parties to act swiftly.
Connecting with History
Michael Griffin's Old Handcuffs Shop goes beyond being a mere commercial venture; it's a portal to the past, offering a tactile connection to the stories, struggles, and innovations that have shaped the art of restraint and escape over the years. For those fascinated by history, craftsmanship, or the allure of escape artistry, the shop offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the past in a deeply personal way.
Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the world of historical artifacts, the Old Handcuffs Shop invites you to explore a collection where every item has a tale to tell, offering a unique blend of history, art, and craftsmanship that is as engaging as it is educational.
Rare Houdini Favorite Bean Giant 1887 Handcuffs For Sale
--I'm offering several pair of Rare Vintage Handcuffs-- Please pass this along to anyone who might have an interest thanks!
For Sale: H&R Bean Cobb Handcuffs – Long Chain Canadian Provost Issue
Offered here is a scarce H&R Bean Cobb handcuff, believed to have been used by Canadian Provost personnel. This example remains in good condition, showing honest field wear and approximately 50% of the original nickel plating.
Chain: 11" long chain configuration
Markings: Stamped with the Canadian “C Broadarrow” government property mark
Condition: Good, smooth working action, no key included
Notes: Displays well with characteristic signs of service use; consistent with Canadian military and Provost modifications made to meet field needs
A genuine, hard-to-find Canadian military restraint from a period when agencies often adapted American-made cuffs for their own operations.
Please see pics for overall condition.
$10.00 USPS Flat Rate Priority (U.S. only)
International shipping quotes available.
Payment accepted via PayPal, Zelle, CashApp, Apple Pay, Venmo, or major credit cards.
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
—
More cuffs and info available.
For Sale: H&R Super Handcuffs – Early Long Chain Model (Very Scarce)
Offered here is a scarce early model H&R Super handcuff — an exceptional example of the long chain version measuring approximately 10 inches, showing about 90% of the original plating and presented in VG+ condition with working key.
Model: Early version without the milled groove, a hard-to-find production type.
Markings: Stamped with the Canadian “C Broadarrow” government property mark.
Serial Number: None present, consistent with early production.
Chain: 10" long chain configuration — while this long chain appears to have been modified after manufacture, it is fully congruent with the type of field modifications agencies often made to better suit their operational needs.
Condition: VG+, strong plating, smooth operation, and excellent presentation.
Provenance: Believed to have been purchased and used by Canadian Provost personnel. In Canada, Provost detachments commonly used American-made handcuffs, while overseas Provost Companies employed both American and British types. Small stocks of WWI-era Canadian handcuffs were reissued in 1939. Many Canadian Service Police restraints (including Air Force and Navy) were marked with C-Arrow stamps or Provost Company numbers.
A very scarce, historically significant early model, representing both the ingenuity and adaptability of military restraint use during the mid-20th century.
Please see pics for overall condition.
$10.00 USPS Flat Rate Priority (U.S. only)
International shipping quotes available.
Payment accepted via PayPal, Zelle, CashApp, Apple Pay, Venmo, or major credit cards.
Remember to checkout our facebook page about handcuffs: ✅ https://www.facebook.com/people/International-Handcuff-Exchange/100063586445311/
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
—
More cuffs and info available.
For Sale: Vintage H&R Bean Cobb Handcuffs – Long Chain Canadian Provost Issue
Another fine H&R Bean Cobb handcuff believed to have been used by Canadian Provost personnel, this example remains in VG condition with approximately 85% of the original nickel plating intact.
Chain:11" long chain configuration
Markings: Stamped with the Canadian “C Broadarrow” property mark
Condition:VG overall, smooth working action, no key included
Notes: A solid, field-used example consistent with Canadian military and Provost service modifications made to fit operational needs
A scarce and authentic piece of Canadian military restraint history that displays beautifully.
Please see pics for overall condition.
$10.00 USPS Flat Rate Priority (U.S. only)
International shipping quotes available.
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
—
More cuffs and info available.
For Sale: Rare French Heavy Convict Leg Iron (Pre-Manurhin) – Excellent Condition
Condition: Excellent overall; includes original working key
Unique Features: Authentic French heavy-duty convict leg iron, weighing approx 3 pounds with an approx 18" chain—built to restrain with authority
Collectible Value: A very rare and early piece of European restraint history. While the Manurhin name wasn’t stamped until 1919, this set predates that era and was likely manufactured by the predecessor to what would eventually become the Manurhin company.
Functionality: Works perfectly; both cuffs open and close smoothly—mechanically sound and visually striking
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
Remember to checkout our facebook page about handcuffs:
✅ https://www.facebook.com/people/International-Handcuff-Exchange/100063586445311/
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry! If you or someone you know may be interested, please pass this along. Thank you!
For Sale: Hiatt Victorian-Era Irish 8 Handcuffs – Excellent Condition (Simple Lock Reorientation Needed)
$100.00
Offered here is an excellent pair of Victorian-age Hiatt Irish 8 (Fig-8) handcuffs, featuring a smooth, attractive brown patina and stamped HIATT with numbers appearing to read 233 or 238. A classic early British restraint, well-preserved and visually clean.
Maker / Markings: Stamped Hiatt, number appears to be 233/238
Condition: Excellent, strong presentation and patina
Functionality: Mechanically sound; my key works perfectly, though no key is included
Special Note:
At some point — possibly even in vaudeville or escape-act use — the locking bolt was removed and reinstalled backward (rotated 180º)
In this reversed position, the cuffs stay closed by friction, and the altered bolt angle allows them to be pulled open after being shown “locked”
This is a simple repair: just lift the top of the locktube, rotate the locking bolt back to its correct orientation, and reinsert
Why Priced Low: Because of the reversed-lock history, these are offered at a lower price than a standard excellent-condition Irish 8
A clean, well-marked Victorian Hiatt set with a bit of performance lore baked into it — and an easy fix for anyone wanting to return them to original function.
Please see pics for overall condition.
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
—
More cuffs and info available.
#antiquehandcuffs
#vintagehandcuffsforsale
#ibuyhandcuffs
#michaelgriffinescapes
For Sale Rare Antique Civil War Handcuffs And More Shackles
--I'm offering several pair of Rare Antique Handcuffs-- Please pass this along to anyone who might have an interest thanks!
For Sale: H&R Arms Bean Cobb Pattern Handcuffs – Good Condition
Offered here is a solid pair of H&R Arms Bean Cobb Pattern handcuffs in good condition, showing approximately 75% of the original nickel plating, no key, and smooth working action.
Maker: H&R Arms Co.
Design: Bean Cobb pattern, produced into the 1940s
Condition: Good, smooth mechanism, no key, 75% nickel remaining
Identification Tip: H&R Bean cuffs are easy to spot from earlier Bean Cobb versions — they feature a cost-saving design using two oversized chain links instead of the older, more expensive swivel connection found on true Bean Cobb models.
Notes: A practical example of the company’s later production methods, reflecting the transition from traditional craftsmanship to more economical manufacturing.
A classic mid-century variation on one of America’s most recognizable restraint designs.
Please see pics for overall condition.
$10.00 USPS Flat Rate Priority (U.S. only)
International shipping quotes available.
Payment accepted via PayPal, Zelle, CashApp, Apple Pay, Venmo, or major credit cards.
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
For Sale: H&R Bean Cobb Handcuffs – Long Chain Canadian Provost Issue
Offered here is a scarce H&R Bean Cobb handcuff, believed to have been used by Canadian Provost personnel. This example remains in good condition, showing honest field wear and approximately 50% of the original nickel plating.
Chain: 11" long chain configuration
Markings: Stamped with the Canadian “C Broadarrow” government property mark
Condition: Good, smooth working action, no key included
Notes: Displays well with characteristic signs of service use; consistent with Canadian military and Provost modifications made to meet field needs
A genuine, hard-to-find Canadian military restraint from a period when agencies often adapted American-made cuffs for their own operations.
Please see pics for overall condition.
$10.00 USPS Flat Rate Priority (U.S. only)
International shipping quotes available.
Payment accepted via PayPal, Zelle, CashApp, Apple Pay, Venmo, or major credit cards.
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
—
More cuffs and info available.
For Sale: H&R Super Handcuffs – Early Long Chain Model (Very Scarce)
Offered here is a scarce early model H&R Super handcuff — an exceptional example of the long chain version measuring approximately 10 inches, showing about 90% of the original plating and presented in VG+ condition with working key.
Model: Early version without the milled groove, a hard-to-find production type.
Markings: Stamped with the Canadian “C Broadarrow” government property mark.
Serial Number: None present, consistent with early production.
Chain: 10" long chain configuration — while this long chain appears to have been modified after manufacture, it is fully congruent with the type of field modifications agencies often made to better suit their operational needs.
Condition: VG+, strong plating, smooth operation, and excellent presentation.
Provenance: Believed to have been purchased and used by Canadian Provost personnel. In Canada, Provost detachments commonly used American-made handcuffs, while overseas Provost Companies employed both American and British types. Small stocks of WWI-era Canadian handcuffs were reissued in 1939. Many Canadian Service Police restraints (including Air Force and Navy) were marked with C-Arrow stamps or Provost Company numbers.
A very scarce, historically significant early model, representing both the ingenuity and adaptability of military restraint use during the mid-20th century.
Please see pics for overall condition.
$10.00 USPS Flat Rate Priority (U.S. only)
International shipping quotes available.
Payment accepted via PayPal, Zelle, CashApp, Apple Pay, Venmo, or major credit cards.
Remember to checkout our facebook page about handcuffs: ✅ https://www.facebook.com/people/International-Handcuff-Exchange/100063586445311/
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
—
More cuffs and info available.
For Sale: Vintage H&R Bean Cobb Handcuffs – Long Chain Canadian Provost Issue
Another fine H&R Bean Cobb handcuff believed to have been used by Canadian Provost personnel, this example remains in VG condition with approximately 85% of the original nickel plating intact.
Chain:11" long chain configuration
Markings: Stamped with the Canadian “C Broadarrow” property mark
Condition:VG overall, smooth working action, no key included
Notes: A solid, field-used example consistent with Canadian military and Provost service modifications made to fit operational needs
A scarce and authentic piece of Canadian military restraint history that displays beautifully.
Please see pics for overall condition.
$10.00 USPS Flat Rate Priority (U.S. only)
International shipping quotes available.
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
—
More cuffs and info available.
For Sale: Rare French Heavy Convict Leg Iron (Pre-Manurhin) – Excellent Condition
Condition: Excellent overall; includes original working key
Unique Features: Authentic French heavy-duty convict leg iron, weighing approx 3 pounds with an approx 18" chain—built to restrain with authority
Collectible Value: A very rare and early piece of European restraint history. While the Manurhin name wasn’t stamped until 1919, this set predates that era and was likely manufactured by the predecessor to what would eventually become the Manurhin company.
Functionality: Works perfectly; both cuffs open and close smoothly—mechanically sound and visually striking
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
Remember to checkout our facebook page about handcuffs:
✅ https://www.facebook.com/people/International-Handcuff-Exchange/100063586445311/
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry! If you or someone you know may be interested, please pass this along. Thank you!
For Sale: Hiatt Victorian-Era Irish 8 Handcuffs – Excellent Condition (Simple Lock Reorientation Needed)
$100.00
Offered here is an excellent pair of Victorian-age Hiatt Irish 8 (Fig-8) handcuffs, featuring a smooth, attractive brown patina and stamped HIATT with numbers appearing to read 233 or 238. A classic early British restraint, well-preserved and visually clean.
Maker / Markings: Stamped Hiatt, number appears to be 233/238
Condition: Excellent, strong presentation and patina
Functionality: Mechanically sound; my key works perfectly, though no key is included
Special Note:
At some point — possibly even in vaudeville or escape-act use — the locking bolt was removed and reinstalled backward (rotated 180º)
In this reversed position, the cuffs stay closed by friction, and the altered bolt angle allows them to be pulled open after being shown “locked”
This is a simple repair: just lift the top of the locktube, rotate the locking bolt back to its correct orientation, and reinsert
Why Priced Low: Because of the reversed-lock history, these are offered at a lower price than a standard excellent-condition Irish 8
A clean, well-marked Victorian Hiatt set with a bit of performance lore baked into it — and an easy fix for anyone wanting to return them to original function.
Please see pics for overall condition.
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
—
More cuffs and info available.
#antiquehandcuffs
#vintagehandcuffsforsale
#ibuyhandcuffs
#michaelgriffinescapes
Rare Vintage Handcuffs For Sale Now: American and German Antique Handcuffs
--I'm offering several pair of Rare Vintage Handcuffs-- Please pass this along to anyone who might have an interest thanks!
For Sale: H&R Arms Bean Cobb Pattern Handcuffs – Good Condition
Offered here is a solid pair of H&R Arms Bean Cobb Pattern handcuffs in good condition, showing approximately 75% of the original nickel plating, no key, and smooth working action.
Maker: H&R Arms Co.
Design: Bean Cobb pattern, produced into the 1940s
Condition: Good, smooth mechanism, no key, 75% nickel remaining
Identification Tip: H&R Bean cuffs are easy to spot from earlier Bean Cobb versions — they feature a cost-saving design using two oversized chain links instead of the older, more expensive swivel connection found on true Bean Cobb models.
Notes: A practical example of the company’s later production methods, reflecting the transition from traditional craftsmanship to more economical manufacturing.
A classic mid-century variation on one of America’s most recognizable restraint designs.
Please see pics for overall condition.
$10.00 USPS Flat Rate Priority (U.S. only)
International shipping quotes available.
Payment accepted via PayPal, Zelle, CashApp, Apple Pay, Venmo, or major credit cards.
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
For Sale: H&R Bean Cobb Handcuffs – Long Chain Canadian Provost Issue
Offered here is a scarce H&R Bean Cobb handcuff, believed to have been used by Canadian Provost personnel. This example remains in good condition, showing honest field wear and approximately 50% of the original nickel plating.
Chain: 11" long chain configuration
Markings: Stamped with the Canadian “C Broadarrow” government property mark
Condition: Good, smooth working action, no key included
Notes: Displays well with characteristic signs of service use; consistent with Canadian military and Provost modifications made to meet field needs
A genuine, hard-to-find Canadian military restraint from a period when agencies often adapted American-made cuffs for their own operations.
Please see pics for overall condition.
$10.00 USPS Flat Rate Priority (U.S. only)
International shipping quotes available.
Payment accepted via PayPal, Zelle, CashApp, Apple Pay, Venmo, or major credit cards.
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
—
More cuffs and info available.
For Sale: H&R Super Handcuffs – Early Long Chain Model (Very Scarce)
Offered here is a scarce early model H&R Super handcuff — an exceptional example of the long chain version measuring approximately 10 inches, showing about 90% of the original plating and presented in VG+ condition with working key.
Model: Early version without the milled groove, a hard-to-find production type.
Markings: Stamped with the Canadian “C Broadarrow” government property mark.
Serial Number: None present, consistent with early production.
Chain: 10" long chain configuration — while this long chain appears to have been modified after manufacture, it is fully congruent with the type of field modifications agencies often made to better suit their operational needs.
Condition: VG+, strong plating, smooth operation, and excellent presentation.
Provenance: Believed to have been purchased and used by Canadian Provost personnel. In Canada, Provost detachments commonly used American-made handcuffs, while overseas Provost Companies employed both American and British types. Small stocks of WWI-era Canadian handcuffs were reissued in 1939. Many Canadian Service Police restraints (including Air Force and Navy) were marked with C-Arrow stamps or Provost Company numbers.
A very scarce, historically significant early model, representing both the ingenuity and adaptability of military restraint use during the mid-20th century.
Please see pics for overall condition.
$10.00 USPS Flat Rate Priority (U.S. only)
International shipping quotes available.
Payment accepted via PayPal, Zelle, CashApp, Apple Pay, Venmo, or major credit cards.
Remember to checkout our facebook page about handcuffs: ✅ https://www.facebook.com/people/International-Handcuff-Exchange/100063586445311/
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
—
More cuffs and info available.
For Sale: Vintage H&R Bean Cobb Handcuffs – Long Chain Canadian Provost Issue
Another fine H&R Bean Cobb handcuff believed to have been used by Canadian Provost personnel, this example remains in VG condition with approximately 85% of the original nickel plating intact.
Chain:11" long chain configuration
Markings: Stamped with the Canadian “C Broadarrow” property mark
Condition:VG overall, smooth working action, no key included
Notes: A solid, field-used example consistent with Canadian military and Provost service modifications made to fit operational needs
A scarce and authentic piece of Canadian military restraint history that displays beautifully.
Please see pics for overall condition.
$10.00 USPS Flat Rate Priority (U.S. only)
International shipping quotes available.
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
—
More cuffs and info available.
For Sale: Rare French Heavy Convict Leg Iron (Pre-Manurhin) – Excellent Condition
Condition: Excellent overall; includes original working key
Unique Features: Authentic French heavy-duty convict leg iron, weighing approx 3 pounds with an approx 18" chain—built to restrain with authority
Collectible Value: A very rare and early piece of European restraint history. While the Manurhin name wasn’t stamped until 1919, this set predates that era and was likely manufactured by the predecessor to what would eventually become the Manurhin company.
Functionality: Works perfectly; both cuffs open and close smoothly—mechanically sound and visually striking
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
Remember to checkout our facebook page about handcuffs:
✅ https://www.facebook.com/people/International-Handcuff-Exchange/100063586445311/
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry! If you or someone you know may be interested, please pass this along. Thank you!
For Sale: Hiatt Victorian-Era Irish 8 Handcuffs – Excellent Condition (Simple Lock Reorientation Needed)
$100.00
Offered here is an excellent pair of Victorian-age Hiatt Irish 8 (Fig-8) handcuffs, featuring a smooth, attractive brown patina and stamped HIATT with numbers appearing to read 233 or 238. A classic early British restraint, well-preserved and visually clean.
Maker / Markings: Stamped Hiatt, number appears to be 233/238
Condition: Excellent, strong presentation and patina
Functionality: Mechanically sound; my key works perfectly, though no key is included
Special Note:
At some point — possibly even in vaudeville or escape-act use — the locking bolt was removed and reinstalled backward (rotated 180º)
In this reversed position, the cuffs stay closed by friction, and the altered bolt angle allows them to be pulled open after being shown “locked”
This is a simple repair: just lift the top of the locktube, rotate the locking bolt back to its correct orientation, and reinsert
Why Priced Low: Because of the reversed-lock history, these are offered at a lower price than a standard excellent-condition Irish 8
A clean, well-marked Victorian Hiatt set with a bit of performance lore baked into it — and an easy fix for anyone wanting to return them to original function.
Please see pics for overall condition.
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
—
More cuffs and info available.
#antiquehandcuffs
#vintagehandcuffsforsale
#ibuyhandcuffs
#michaelgriffinescapes
For Sale: H&R Arms Bean Cobb Pattern Handcuffs – Good Condition
Offered here is a solid pair of H&R Arms Bean Cobb Pattern handcuffs in good condition, showing approximately 75% of the original nickel plating, no key, and smooth working action.
Maker: H&R Arms Co.
Design: Bean Cobb pattern, produced into the 1940s
Condition: Good, smooth mechanism, no key, 75% nickel remaining
Identification Tip: H&R Bean cuffs are easy to spot from earlier Bean Cobb versions — they feature a cost-saving design using two oversized chain links instead of the older, more expensive swivel connection found on true Bean Cobb models.
Notes: A practical example of the company’s later production methods, reflecting the transition from traditional craftsmanship to more economical manufacturing.
A classic mid-century variation on one of America’s most recognizable restraint designs.
Please see pics for overall condition.
$10.00 USPS Flat Rate Priority (U.S. only)
International shipping quotes available.
Payment accepted via PayPal, Zelle, CashApp, Apple Pay, Venmo, or major credit cards.
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!