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An Actual Prison-Used Electric Chair. Over the years we have seen several purported electric chairs, one of which we even owned briefly. However, one was never certain with any of these three whether they were authentic or merely movie props, or perhaps made for a macabre museum display. But the chair offered here appears in every way utterly authentic. Its fittings are correct and the entire unit has a consistent patina of age and use that would be all but impossible to fabricate.

The chair was obtained by the consignor in Pennsylvania, from a retired prison guard who chose to remain anonymous, but who declared that it was removed from a Pennsylvania penitentiary when replaced around 1940. It is constructed of oak with leather and metal accessories. A panel in the seat is removable, so that during an execution a bucket could be placed below, as dying prisoners would normally evacuate their bowels. Two adjustable metal restraints are formed to hold his shoulders in place. The headrest, covered in an old style of simulated leather and a terry cloth like material, is also adjustable. Leather restraints for wrists and legs with original buckles. An authenticating characteristic is the lack of a metal cap, which fit down over the prisoner's head and delivered the electrical current. Undoubtedly for visual impact this was found attached to two of the inauthentic chairs we have seen in the past. However, the original fixture was attached to the wall at the power source, and was not an integral part of the chair itself.

Height 50", width 29". Aside from desirable even wear, it is in excellent condition. Obviously not for everyone, but for anyone with a genuine interest this is an extremely rare and desirable item with incredible display presence.

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