File:Roman L-shaped lift key (FindID 150399).jpg

English: A corroded cast iron L-shaped lift key from a Roman tumbler lock. The key is of the form numbered '3' in Manning's (1985, 91; fig. 25) typology: it has a stem that narrows towards the bit, a rolled bow, and ?three teeth on the bit. The rolled suspension 'loop' no longer joins the stem. It is 15.9mm wide and up to 14.8mm across externally. The upper part of the stem is rectangular in section (c. 13.5mm by c. 9.5mm). About 57mm below the top of the bow it narrows to a ?circular section with diameter c. 9mm. The bit is just past the perpendicular and is bent round on itself at its terminal suggesting that it may have been damaged. Two teeth survive (Ls.: c. 11mm, c. 13.8mm) and the extension beyond the second tooth suggests at least a third, making it rare (Manning 1985, 90). This key is similar to an example illustrated in Manning (1985, Plate 40; ref. 034). A wide Roman date has been given since such keys have emerged from different archaeological contexts and because the form is an enduring one (see below, 'Notes').