by Arik » Wed Apr 26, 2017 11:51 am
Hi Nader
Thanks for the pictures. The Tann family was the world's first safe maker founded by Edward Tann in the late 1790's. Their trade mark was the anchor and they were made at their Reliance Safe Works. Their London office was originally at 11 Newgate Street but the story goes that the upper floors overlooked he execution yard at the notorious Newgate Prison so they eventually moved further up the road to number 117.
This type of construction is referred to as '12 corner bent' and it probably dates to the late 1920's or early 30's and is in very good condition for its age.
It is still listed as an approved safe by British insurers but only as a low risk safe with a recommended maximum overnight cash holding of just £1,000 or £10,000 domestic valuables.
There are people who love to refurbish these old safes and this one is still in its original paint finish so it should go well at auction. You will have the problem of getting it there a it will weigh around 8cwt but if you do, I think a reserve of £300 would be about right but you could get more. An alternative is to put it on eBay but make sure you specify 'buyer collects'.
Good luck!
Mike Palmer FSyI
Mike Palmer Consultancy