Antique fireproof safe / security safe

Furniture

Uncommon

Identified on October 27, 2026

Estimated Value

$150-$600 as-is; potentially higher ($800-$1,500+) if fully functional, complete, and attributable to a desirable maker/model in restored condition

This appears to be a vintage or antique upright fireproof safe with a decorative painted front panel, brass combination lock, and heavy steel door with external hinges. The front bears the name 'J.D. Poole' and faint maker text near the bottom that appears to read '... Safe & Lock Co., Cincinnati, O.' The safe has ornate Victorian-era style scrollwork and a small scenic transfer or painted panel at center. The overall design suggests a commercial or household security safe from the late 19th or early 20th century, intended for document and valuables storage. The finish is heavily worn, but the decorative elements and original lock hardware remain visible.

Era

Late 19th century to early 20th century (approximately 1890s-1910s)

Origin

United States, likely Cincinnati, Ohio

Material

Painted and decorated steel/iron with brass hardware and lock components

Condition

Fair to Poor; heavy surface wear, paint loss, oxidation/rust, scuffing, and visible aging to the decorative finish. Hardware appears present, but overall cosmetic condition is significantly worn.

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Physical Details

Dimensions

Approximately 30-36 inches tall, 20-26 inches wide, and 18-24 inches deep (estimated from image)

Weight

Heavy

Authentication

Authenticity Score

Medium; the construction, lock, and decorative style are consistent with an antique safe, but the exact maker and date cannot be confirmed from the image alone. The visible text suggests authenticity, though the worn finish makes some details difficult to verify.

Provenance

Likely manufactured in Cincinnati, Ohio, by a safe and lock company associated with the Cincinnati safe-making industry. The name 'J.D. Poole' may indicate an owner, dealer, or retailer marking rather than the manufacturer.

Historical Significance

Antique safes from Cincinnati are historically significant because Cincinnati was a major center of safe manufacturing in the 19th and early 20th centuries. These safes reflect the era's emphasis on fireproofing, mechanical security, and ornate industrial design. Examples with original decoration, labels, and intact mechanisms are of interest to collectors of banking, commercial, and industrial antiques.

Restoration Notes

•Heavy surface wear and finish loss visible
•Possible prior touch-up or overpainting in areas, though not certain
•No clear evidence of structural restoration visible from the image

Learn more about this type of antique

This identification and value range are AI-generated research aids, not authentication, certification, or a formal appraisal. Learn about the limitations and when to consult a qualified professional appraiser.