These are an original pair of Victorian wrist shackles / handcuffs by 'W. Down'. The shackles are a matching pair and are hinged and sized to fit the wrist. Once closed a steel forged cap goes over the shackles and a chain is threaded through the cap and shackle. This method of shackling someone allowed several people to be restrained with one long chain, similar to the transportation ships used to ship convicts to Australia and also chain gangs, it allowed movement of the hands and arms but kept the prisoner secure. Both shackles open and close smoothly as they should. Both iron caps are stamped. The first is stamped with the number "26" and above this "W H". The second is stamped with the number "5" and "W. Down", see the photographs. The price includes UK delivery. Sn 13907:41
£375.00