An antique key is a manually operated locking device crafted in earlier centuries, often made of brass, iron, or bronze. These keys were designed for warded locks, barrel locks, or other mechanical mechanisms common before modern pin-tumbler systems. Their intricate shapes and ornate handles reflect the artistry and craftsmanship of their era, sometimes bearing engravings, symbols, or family crests. Antique keys were used in homes, churches, government buildings, and even safes, serving as both functional tools and status symbols. Collectors value them for their historical context, rarity, and aesthetic appeal. Many are displayed as decorative items or incorporated into jewelry and art. Preserving an antique key involves careful cleaning and avoidance of harsh chemicals to maintain its patina and structural integrity. Each key tells a silent story of the doors it once opened and the lives it protected.