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1920s NYC Detective Handcuffs – Chinese Gang
Currency:USD
Category:Firearms & Military
Start Price:100.00 USD
Estimated At:300.00 - 25.00 USD
CURRENT BID
0.00USD+ applicable fees & taxes.
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Live Online Auction Starts In
2025 Oct 09 @ 12:00 (UTC-05:00 : EST/CDT)
Item/Description: Up for auction is a pair of late 1800s Tower locking handcuffs with key, used in the 1920s by New York City Detective (later Acting Captain) John Archipoli, head of the NYPD "Gangster Squad."
Archipoli is documented in multiple New York Times reports of the 1920s. In September 1925, he is noted for compelling rival Chinese tongs to sign a peace compact during ongoing gang wars. In 1926, he again appears leading the Gangster Squad in a series of arrests connected to holdups. These contemporary accounts establish his central role in New York City’s fight against organized crime and Chinese gangs in the Prohibition era.
The handcuffs themselves are a fine example of Tower restraints (nickel finish, three-ring chain linkage, stamped “134,” last patent date 1882). Their true significance, however, lies in their provenance: they come directly from the estate of John Archipoli and are accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Taurus Auctions, verifying purchase from the Archipoli family.
Material: Metal
Dimensions: Length: 8 1/2"; Width: 4 1/2"
Condition: Signs of age and wear include surface scratches and scuffing.
Age: 1880s
Provenance: Private Estate
Shipping: $16.95 Standard (within Continental US) provided In-House. Shipping method is determined by item size, type, fragility and specific characteristics. Shipping and handling costs are calculated based on average carrier rates, delivery distance and packing complexity. PLEASE NOTE: All orders over $500 will require shipping insurance to be paid by the buyer. A fee of $1.50 per $100 of coverage will be added to your shipping and handling cost(s). International Bidders: Please email admin@taurusauctions.com for a shipping quote to your country. Condition Reports: Please see all photos and read entire description before requesting condition reports. Please contact us before bidding if you require additional photos or have any questions regarding condition. Email admin@taurusauctions.com for all condition reports. See all Terms and Conditions prior to bidding.
Auction Location:
30-06 Broadway, Fair Lawn, New Jersey, 07666, United States
Previewing Details:
Preview by appointment. Contact us at 201-623-3323.
Buyer's Premiums:
| From (Incl.) | To (Excl.) | Premium |
| 0.00 |
Infinite |
25% |
Additional Fees:
Shipping Details:
In-House Shipping (when noted on lot), Local Pick-Up, Bidder Can Make Third Party Shipping Arrangements.
Payment Details:
No Info Available
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