This older key from the New York Central Railroad was made by Wilson Bohannan, Brooklyn, N.Y.

It is stamped NYCRR in finer block lettering on one side of its bow. On the other side is serial number 4512 in large serif Roman numbers, alongside the Bohannan maker mark and the letter S for switch.

Condition is very good, with moderate use showing on the barrel end and bit. This key has great patina and an attractive deep color. The thinner/finer lettering does make it harder to see the marking, especially on the darkening color.

We can date this key to having been made between 1914 and 1926, because in 1926, the Wilson Bohannan Company moved its operation from Brooklyn, New York to Marion, Ohio and the Bohannan markings were changed accordingly.

The New York Central Railroad came into existence in 1914, following the restructuring of the New York Central & Hudson River Railroad. The New York Central was in operation until 1968. Between 1914 and 1935 it also was referred to as the New York Central Lines; between 1935 and 1968, the New York Central System. "New York Central Railroad" was the all-encompassing name that was used over the entire time, making "NYCRR" a difficult marking to date when no other information is present.