Bean-Cobb Handcuffs Pat May 2 -1899

The Bean-Cobb handcuff, patented by Lyman H. Cobb in 1899 and likely manufactured by companies like Tower & Lyon or H&R Arms, represents an important chapter in the history of law enforcement. Their innovative design addressed the limitations of earlier handcuff models, offering a more practical and maintainable tool for officers. Today, these historical restraints are not only fascinating relics of the past but also valuable collectibles that offer a tangible connection to the evolution of law enforcement practices in America and beyond. The next time you encounter a pair of handcuffs marked “Pat May 2 – 1899,” remember the ingenuity behind their design and the companies that played a role in their widespread use.