Sell Your Vintage Handcuffs for Cash: Michael Griffin's Quest to Buy Handcuffs & Entire Collections

The Greatest Living Escape Artist Michael Griffin on a Quest to Assemble the World's Largest Handcuff Collection

As an escape artist, I’ve spent my life mastering the art of breaking free from even the most complex and secure restraints. But my fascination with handcuffs goes beyond simply escaping them. I’m Michael Griffin, and I’m on a mission to assemble the largest collection of handcuffs in the world, and I’m paying cash for single items or entire collections. If you're someone with a piece of history locked away in a drawer or an attic, now is your chance to be a part of something extraordinary.

Greatest Living Escape Artist Michael Griffin Wants To Buy Your Handcuffs

Throughout my career, I've escaped from countless handcuffs—each with its own story, design, and challenge. From vintage police restraints to custom-built locks, every pair represents a chapter in the evolution of security and escape artistry. That’s why I’ve launched OldHandcuffs.net to bring together collectors, enthusiasts, and individuals who want to contribute to this ever-growing collection.

Whether you have a rare antique or a modern piece of craftsmanship, I’m interested in hearing from you. It doesn’t matter if you have a single pair of cuffs or an entire collection passed down through generations—each item has a place in this quest. The goal is to build not just a collection, but a living museum of handcuff history, showing the world the fascinating ways humanity has tried to keep others restrained.

If you’ve got handcuffs gathering dust or you're ready to part with something special, OldHandcuffs.net is where you can connect with me directly. Together, let’s make history.

Visit OldHandcuffs.net and help me escape into the record books!

Unlock History: Rare Antique Handcuffs Now Available at Michael Griffin's Old Handcuffs Shop

A New Treasure Trove: Michael Griffin's Old Handcuffs Shop

Cash Paid For Antique Handcuffs

In the shadowy and thrilling world of escape artistry, few names resonate as profoundly as Michael Griffin's. Known for his Houdini-esque escapes and a profound reverence for the historical underpinnings of his craft, Griffin has long married his passion for performance with an equally intense dedication to historical preservation. For over 30 years, his venture, OldHandcuffs.net, has served as a beacon for collectors, historians, and enthusiasts, offering a rare glimpse into the art of restraint's storied past. It's a place where the handcuffs and leg irons that once symbolized confinement are transformed into artifacts of intrigue and narratives of resilience.

The Old Handcuffs Shop: A Legacy Continued

The Old Handcuffs Shop (www.oldhandcuffs.net/shop) isn't just a business; it's a curated museum where history is tangible, and every item tells a story. Griffin's expertise and passion breathe life into this unique collection, making it a premier destination for those seeking to own a piece of history. The recent addition of new items to the catalog is a testament to Griffin's ongoing commitment to expanding and sharing this remarkable collection.

Newly Listed Gems

Among the standout pieces newly listed in the shop, the Romer's Leg Irons from 1880 evoke a bygone era, offering a stark glimpse into the methods and materials of restraint used in the late 19th century. The Rankin Civil War Handcuffs not only serve as a reminder of the tumultuous times of the American Civil War but also highlight the craftsmanship and design of restraint devices used during that period.

The Mattatuck WW1 Handcuffs stand out for their historical significance, being the very design from which Houdini himself taught American troops the art of escape. This piece bridges the gap between practical utility and performance art, embodying the strategic use of escape techniques in wartime.

Also featured are exceptional examples of early 1900s British transport handcuffs and leg irons, showcasing the evolution of restraint mechanisms across the pond. These artifacts offer a window into the design preferences and security concerns of British law enforcement agencies during the early 20th century.

A rare addition to the collection is the 1934 FBI Super Handcuffs, manufactured by the renowned H&R Arms. These handcuffs represent a unique intersection of law enforcement needs and industrial ingenuity, reflecting the continuous evolution of security devices.

First Come, First Served: A Unique Opportunity

The listing of these items and more in the Old Handcuffs Shop offers a unique opportunity for collectors, historians, and enthusiasts to acquire a piece of history. Given the rarity and historical value of these artifacts, they are available on a first-come, first-served basis, making it imperative for interested parties to act swiftly.

Connecting with History

Michael Griffin's Old Handcuffs Shop goes beyond being a mere commercial venture; it's a portal to the past, offering a tactile connection to the stories, struggles, and innovations that have shaped the art of restraint and escape over the years. For those fascinated by history, craftsmanship, or the allure of escape artistry, the shop offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the past in a deeply personal way.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the world of historical artifacts, the Old Handcuffs Shop invites you to explore a collection where every item has a tale to tell, offering a unique blend of history, art, and craftsmanship that is as engaging as it is educational.

Michael Griffin: The Quest of a Master Escape Artist to Build the World's Premier Handcuff Collection

Michael Griffin: The Ultimate Escape Artist and Collector of Historic Handcuffs

Michael Griffin Escape Artist displays some of the world’s rarest handcuffs and hopes to create the largest collection in the world.

Michael Griffin stands as a figure larger than life in the world of escapology and historical preservation. Known as the world's greatest living escape artist, Griffin's journey extends beyond his breathtaking escape feats. He is also on a quest to curate the world’s most extensive collection of antique and rare handcuffs, a mission fueled by his deep passion for history and mechanical artistry. This blog post delves into Griffin's multi-faceted career, highlighting his extraordinary escapades and his relentless pursuit of handcuffs with rich historical legacies.

The Beginning of an Adventure

  • Early Fascination: Griffin’s love for handcuffs started at 18, driven by their intricate design and the stories they embody. This fascination soon turned into a lifelong mission to collect, preserve, and share these historical artifacts with the world.

A Career of Unparalleled Escapades

  • Master Escapologist: Griffin's escapology feats have earned him global acclaim. His ability to escape from any restraint, combined with his deep knowledge of these devices, has made him a legend in the field.

  • The $100,000 Challenge: Griffin is the only escape artist to have ever offered a $100,000 reward to anyone who can successfully keep him prisoner, a testament to his confidence and skill in escapology.

  • A Hero in Restraints: Remarkably, Griffin once helped catch a murderer while tied up by the criminal himself. In another instance, he led 1,200 people out of a burning building, remaining tied up the entire time.

  • Surviving the Impossible: Griffin's daredevil nature is underscored by his survival of a public hanging. Tied up on the back of a horse, hands bound, and with a 13-knot hangman's noose cinched tightly around his neck, he accomplished what no other human has.

  • Houdini’s Legacy: Griffin’s connection to Harry Houdini is not just through handcuff collecting. He is the only escape artist ever granted permission to attempt an escape from Houdini's own box, submerged at the bottom of the ocean, after it sat in dry dock for 90 years.

The World’s Premier Handcuff Collection

  • Rare and Historic Handcuffs: Griffin's collection includes handcuffs from the 1600s to the present day, from almost every country. Notably, he owns rare handcuffs once belonging to Houdini and has even sold several of Houdini's handcuffs, deepening his ties to the legendary escapologist.

  • The Global Hunt: Griffin's search for handcuffs is worldwide. He connects with a network of collectors and historians to find unique pieces that add historical and cultural value to his museum.

Engaging with the Community and Preserving History

  • An Open Invitation: Griffin encourages those with unique handcuffs or knowledge of their whereabouts to contact him. Contributions not only add to his museum but also offer financial rewards for valuable finds.

Online Presence and Future Aspirations

  • Oldhandcuffs.net and MichaelGriffinEscapes.com: Through Oldhandcuffs.net and MichaelGriffinEscapes.com, Griffin shares his escapology feats and his handcuff collection journey, highlighting the intersection of his dual roles as an escape artist and a historian.

  • The Museum of Restraint: Griffin's dream is to establish a museum to showcase the evolution and significance of restraints, offering an interactive and educational experience for all visitors.

Conclusion: A Legacy Beyond Escapology

Michael Griffin's escapades and handcuff collection endeavor represent a unique blend of thrill, historical preservation, and education. His proposed museum is not just about showcasing his collection but also about creating a cultural and educational hub. As both an escape artist and a collector, Griffin is a guardian of history, ensuring that the stories, craftsmanship, and evolution of these fascinating artifacts continue to inspire and educate future generations. His life, marked by extraordinary achievements and an unwavering commitment to his passions, stands as a testament to the power of dedication and the pursuit of the extraordinary.

Rare Houdini Favorite Bean Giant 1887 Handcuffs For Sale

--I'm offering several pair of Rare Vintage Handcuffs-- Please pass this along to anyone who might have an interest thanks!


For Sale Rare Antique Civil War Handcuffs And More Shackles

--I'm offering several pair of Rare Antique Handcuffs-- Please pass this along to anyone who might have an interest thanks!


Rare Vintage Handcuffs For Sale Now: American and German Antique Handcuffs

--I'm offering several pair of Rare Vintage Handcuffs-- Please pass this along to anyone who might have an interest thanks!


I have antique handcuffs for sale Houdini favorites

I am selling several handcuffs.

If you have an interest please let me know or pass along to someone you know who might.

Please let me know if you have any old handcuffs for sale.

Please visit my site for more items Oldhandcuffs

Michael

The Cuffs:

A - SPF (Singapore Police Force) adjustable darby pattern 1970's -- $115.00

B - H&R Arms FBI Super Cuff (hidden keyhole, one of the strongest cuffs ever made) 1934 -- $125.00

C - Argus Iron Claw. Police used "come-along" fantastic invention w/ double lock collar 1934 -- $100.00

D - Tower's Pinkerton Detective handcuffs 1887. Houdini wrote I wish all cuffs were this easily managed to escape from -- $200.00

E - Deutsche Polizei, German folding cuff double locking aluminum and steel 1960 -- $125.00

Antique Handcuffs For Sale Vintage Shackles

#antiques
#antiquesandcollectibles
#antiquescollectors
#antiquesforsale
#civilwar
#civilwarcollectable
#cuffs
#fetish
#forsale
#handcuffs
#handcuffsforsale
#houdini
#iverjohnson
#lockcollector
#locksforsale
#magic
#magiccollector
#magicprops
#oldhandcuffs
#padlocks
#police
#policebadge
#policecollectables
#policeequipment
#sexy
#vintageforsale

Rare Vintage Handcuffs For Sale Now: American and German Antique Handcuffs

--I'm offering several pair of Rare Vintage Handcuffs-- Please pass this along to anyone who might have an interest thanks!


Bean Giant - Houdini got famous with this legendary handcuff. There was a reward to anyone who could escape from it, a very young Houdini did and they would not pay him the reward because Houdini would not divulge his method!

This is the earlier version of the Bean Giant, It is stamped Pat. Nov. '87 on the back The cuff is in an open position, the locks need to be cleaned.

There is no key. Price: $300.00 OBO =================


Deutsche Polizei - This is a hard to find cuff in this configuration, it has double lock activating levers on the back of the handcuffs. It is the later model of a famous handcuff that dates back to the 1940s It is in excellent condition and has the original key.

Price: $200.00 OBO ==================


Bean Prison - The heavy version of the world-famous Bean handcuff. This is another handcuff invented by Capt. Bean who invented the famous Bean Giant. This cuff is in good condition. It has the patent dates 1884 stamped around the clevis. It has a working key.

Price: $200.00 OBO =================


Horst Moabit - Transport Belt, exceedingly rare. This item is in excellent plus condition and has the original key!

Price: $700.00 OBO

FOR SALE: RARE VINTAGE ANTIQUE HANDCUFFS, 1870'S - 1940'S



FOR SALE: [VARIOUS] RARE ANTIQUE HANDCUFFS, 1870'S - 1940'S



RARE - FBI HIDDEN KEYWAY SUPER SECURITY HANDCUFFS 1930'S SCARCE 1ST MODEL

These are the scarce 1st model which was manufactured without the security milled groove that would feature so prominently in the second model. These handcuffs patented in 1934 and used exclusively for the FBI are the strongest handcuffs ever manufactured and when in place on the wrist are designed that the keyway is hidden from sight and the entrance blocked. The cuffs are in excellent working condition and come with the key!. Stamped with serial number #4380 Please see pics for more info.

Price: $150.00




================================

SPF Singapore Police Force - An extremely nice pair of Houdini favorite vintage Darby style adjustable handcuffs w/key! Used by the Singapore Police Force

Imagine its the late 1880's you're a young magician wanting desperately to carve out a name for yourself and you're frustrated with card tricks and bunnies and silks. You know inside you there's something great ready to escape, you visit mediums (although some are rather large) you tie them up, you cuff them up and the miracle communication across the ether still happens in the shapeless dark of the room.

You know, you just know there's something to the idea of escape. You finally come across a set of Hiatt's handcuffs at a pawn shop, you run home, you practice for hours looking at the cuffs feeling the cuffs, getting locked in the cuffs and getting out with the key, then it hits you in the face with all the magic of an instant appearance!! what if with these shackles you could escape ordinary magic and maybe rise to the top?

After all the hours of practice, you've discovered the secrets both known and not known in these cuffs and you are ready, the caterpillar shuts down, cocoons and with a new name you are reborn to the World, to history evermore and its because of these handcuffs and the secrets they hold.

Hiatt has made this style of handcuff since the early 1800s. This is a later model w / matching SPF numbered key (cuff and key marked #2035)
The cuffs are in excellent working order
The cuffs are heavy
The cuffs are stamped "HIATT" "BRITISH MADE" "SPF 2035"
The cuffs come with the original matching key
The cuffs retain approx 99% of the original nickel plating.

This is a great cuff, highly historical pattern, extremely well-made and deserves to be in a good collection.

Price: $150.00

===========================

RARE 1920's IMITATION PINKERTON HANDCUFFS W/KEY

This cuff was a short-lived production item that was put out of business by Tower Handcuffs because they were a copy of the famous "Pinkerton" handcuff made by Tower and considered by Houdini to be the easiest cuff to ever escape from.

After they were put out of business from manufacturing these imitation Pinkertons they were sold up until the 1930s in various magic catalogs and surplus shops.

This Handcuff comes complete with key and is in excellent working condition. Please see the pics below for the condition. This will go to a good collection.

Price: $200.00







=============================

RARE EARLY MODEL SINGLE LOCK ANTIQUE WESTERN HANDCUFFS CA. 1870'S

For sale, a very early Tower Single Locking Handcuff as used in the 1870s. Having just patented their first handcuffs a few years before, Tower put into production this exquisitely designed set of handcuffs that ended up kicking off the unparalleled decades-long reign as best handcuffs made anywhere in the world.

This was the last model before Tower started making the Double Locking Handcuff which is arguably one of the most secure handcuffs in history.

This is a wonderful opportunity to add a historically important handcuff to your collection.

Excellent working condition w/key

Price: $150.00

=========================================

I AM LIQUIDATING A PRIVATE COLLECTION OF SOME RARE HANDCUFFS. I am giving descriptions of each below and attaching corresponding pictures with the name of handcuffs at the top of each pic to help with identification. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO ASK ANY QUESTIONS BECAUSE I AM UNDER TIME CONSTRAINTS TO MOVE THESE - DON'T BE SHY! I WILL ENTERTAIN REASONABLE OFFERS! AND, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SHARE THIS TO ANYONE YOU THINK MAY HAVE AN INTEREST. THANK YOU - MICHAEL -XXX-






Need Pandemic Cash? Escape Artist Is Offering Cash For Old Handcuffs | Michael Griffin

Need Pandemic Cash? Escape Artist Is Offering Cash For Old Handcuffs | Michael Griffin

America’s Escape Hero is looking to help folks whose income may have dried up by paying cash for your old handcuffs.

Michael Griffin, America’s Escape Hero is looking for old handcuffs and is willing to pay, sometimes big bucks for “Jail Jewelry”. It’s a way the magician can help folks out who are shackled financially by the pandemic worldwide.

Griffin admits he isn’t going to be able to solve the world’s problems but for people who are facing a temporary lack of job income and so many people around the globe investigating side-gigs, this is a unique way to bring in some income and clear out old unwanted items you may have laying around.

How much will the Escapeguy pay? according to Griffin “each case is different. I have paid $1,000.00 for certain cuffs all the way down to $10.00.”

like any collecting the things to consider are:

1) Condition (overall condition, plated or a polished finish? does it work? does it have a key?)
2) Age (is this old? some cuffs go back over 300 years)
3) Rarity (some cuffs only had a limited run or, were never put into production)

“All in all, everything is collectible. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure and I have made a lifetime of collecting old vintage handcuffs and escaping from handcuffs around the world and would love to buy your old handcuffs and in turn help you out during this pandemic.

Visit: Michael Griffin America’s Escape Hero

Escape Artist Will Pay Cash For Old Handcuffs: Michael Griffin offering big bucks for Jail Jewelry

JAIL JEWELRY NEWS: OR, ALL THE OLD HANDCUFFS HAVE A STORY….

Handcuff Nook Updated:

A bit of nookie lookie

I bought a book on Fengshui, which ironically was not in the right spot at the bookstore lol.

Placing matching cuffs of different sizes opposite each other.

Two Rankins, different sizes

Two Bean Giants, different sizes

One long-ass Lilly to balance it all out.

Oh, and two World Magic Awards for Best Escape Artist :)

Visit: Michael Griffin America’s Escape Hero

ANTIQUE HANDCUFFS FOR SALE: RARE MUEHLENFELD BERLINER HOUDINI FAVORITES

One of the rarest handcuffs ever, The Berliner, the name was coined by Houdini during his first tour of Europe. He stated that most handcuffs with this shape come from and near the town of Berlin, hence they have become known as Berliners.

This model was made by the company MUEHLENFELD for Prisons. It is a very restrictive pattern and even with the key escape is almost impossible.

This specimen is in perfect mechanical condition and comes with (we believe) the original key.

This is a RARE OPPORTUNITY to add a truly top tier historical item to any serious collection of Restraints, Houdini Memorabilia , Locks and Magic History.

tower stoplever4.jpg

Lots of Antique Handcuffs for sale

We buy and sell Jail Jewelry

Jail Jewelry is on sale!  We have reduced some prices on some old antique collectible handcuffs, leg irons and shackles ranging from the Civil War days to the early part of the 1900's.  

Please take a look around and if you see something you like let us know.

Thank you to all handcuff, leg iron, padlock and lock collectors.

ANTIQUE HANDCUFFS FOR SALE CIVIL WAR RELICS

We have some nice antique vintage handcuffs and leg irons for sale now

tower stoplever4.jpg

Lots of Antique Handcuffs for sale

We buy and sell Jail Jewelry

Jail Jewelry is on sale!  We have reduced some prices on some old antique collectible handcuffs, leg irons and shackles ranging from the Civil War days to the early part of the 1900's.  

Please take a look around and if you see something you like let us know.

Thank you to all handcuff, leg iron, padlock and lock collectors.