A retired handyman was stunned to discover a hidden trove of antique padlocks worth thousands after inheriting an 18th-century house.<br /><br />Michael Hamson, 79, of Coven, Staffs., found over 200 historic locks—some from Argentina and India—while clearing the Brewood home of late friend Mary Eileen Jones, 93.<br /><br />The locks, dating back to the 1800s, were made by her ancestor’s company, E. Jones & Sons. Auctioneer Will Farmer called it “an incredible find.”<br /><br />A rare 1902 exhibition padlock with 50,000 combinations alone could fetch £800.<br /><br />The entire haul is expected to sell for up to £6,000 on May 16.
