Obverse Design Three lines of legend go across the check: "MELS LOCKS", "294" and "TOOL CHECK" where "MELS LOCKS" and "TOOL CHECK" are in small letters and "294" is in large numbers.
Reverse Design Blank.
Metal Brass. Size and Shape Round, about 26mm (1 inch) across, with a round hole top center.
Dates Issued Unknown.
Issurer Miraflores Locks.
Numbers Issued Pieces in collector hands include #278, #294, #304 and #305.
Rarity Rare. Manufacturer Unknown. Source Sales on eBay.
Varieties Two similar tool checks exist. One says "MFLS LOCKS" and the other "MELS LOCKS" (note the second letter changes from "F" to "E". The "MFLS" variety has "MFLS LOCKS" in medium-size letters and the "MELS" variety has "MELS LOCKS" in smaller letters.
Function Tool checks were used to control access to tools. The worker would turn in the tool check in exchange for a tool. If the tool was not returned, management would know which employee had checked it out based on the number. I would appreciate from anyone who can add anything to the history of this piece.
Population Count Four specimens are known to me as follows:
  1. Check #278 - Sold on ebay on October 17, 2003 for $12.61 plus $2.50 shipping.
  2. Check #294 - Sold on ebay on October 8, 2003 for $28.99 plus $2.50 shipping.
  3. Check #304 - Sold on ebay on November 13, 2003 for $9.50 plus $2.50 shipping.
  4. Check #305 - Sold on ebay on September 29, 2003 for $33.87 plus $2.50 shipping.
Note: the same number may be issued more than once.