Corbin Rim Lock Value Guide

The Corbin Rim Lock is a quintessential piece of American architectural history, manufactured by the renowned P. & F. Corbin company of New Britain, Connecticut. These cast iron surface-mounted locks were a staple of late 19th-century homes, prized for their durability and the distinct craftsmanship of the Victorian and Edwardian eras.

What Is Corbin Rim Lock Worth?

The typical price range for Corbin Rim Lock is $60 - $60 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Mechanical functionality, specifically whether the internal spring and latch still operate smoothly.
• The presence of original matching components, such as the keeper (strike plate) and the original skeleton key.
• The condition of the cast iron surface, with higher value placed on pieces free from heavy rust or thick layers of lead paint.
• The complexity of the casting, as ornate Victorian patterns often command a premium over plain utility models.

How to Identify Corbin Rim Lock?

• Look for the 'P. & F. Corbin' or 'Corbin' maker's mark stamped directly into the cast iron housing.
• Verify the material is heavy-duty cast iron, consistent with late 19th-century manufacturing standards.
• Check for the specific surface-mount design intended for installation on the face of the door rather than inside a mortise pocket.
• Examine the keyhole and latch mechanism for the characteristic industrial styling used between 1880 and 1920.

History of Corbin Rim Lock

P. & F. Corbin, established in 1849 in New Britain, Connecticut, became one of America's leading manufacturers of hardware. They were renowned for their high-quality locks, keys, and door furnishings, playing a significant role in equipping homes and public buildings across the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Rim locks like this one were a popular and practical choice for securing doors before the widespread adoption of mortise locks.