This is a set of original U.S. Navy keys and key tags from the USS *Oberon* (hull numbers AK-56 / AKA-14 / T-AKA-14).
The USS *Oberon* served during World War II and the Korean War. In 1949, the ship was transferred to the Military Sea Transportation Service (MSTS) and redesignated T-AKA-14—a designation that matches the markings on these original key tags. The ship earned multiple battle stars before being decommissioned in 1955.
Included Items
* (3) Original USS *Oberon* metal key tags
* T-AKA-14 / #40
* T-AKA-14 / #46
* T-AKA-14 / #73
* (4) Original keys
* Three brass barrel-style/skeleton-style ship keys
* One Yale flat key
* Original brown numbered key tag
* Original handwritten paper tag attached to one of the keys
* All items shown in the photographs are included.
Condition
* Retains its original vintage condition.
* Shows signs of normal wear, scratches, oxidation, and age-related patina.
* Stamped markings on the key tags are clear and legible.
* Keys have not been tested on any locks.
* Sold as a historical collectible only.
Historical Background
The USS *Oberon* entered service in 1942 with the hull number AK-56, was redesignated AKA-14 in 1943, and became T-AKA-14 upon transfer to the Military Sea Transportation Service (MSTS) on October 1, 1949. The ship served during World War II and the Korean War, earning six battle stars for WWII service and five for the Korean War, before being decommissioned in 1955. These numbered key tags were part of the ship's original key management system, used to manage compartments, lockers, or equipment.
This is a rare and highly appealing set of military memorabilia, suitable for collectors interested in the US Navy, World War II, the Korean War, MSTS, maritime history, or naval ship artifacts.
Please examine all photos carefully, as they form part of the item description. The items are sold "as-is" (sourced from a Seattle estate sale; no restoration or cleaning has been performed).
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