Gillette Prison/Mental Institution Razor

I just found this on the bay. I'm not going to go for it because it is too expensive. But it is very interesting. The head cap can only be unscrewed with "key" that a guard or orderly had. This kept the inmates away from the blades but still allowed them to shave. It is made by Gillette in Brazil with a date code of Y4 (1978). The key is on the right of this picture. It inserts into the handle and has a hex fitting which screws or unscrews the head cap.

 

Those things are so cool. It's pretty rare that you got a complete set in such good condition.

 

Its NOS!

Edit: The key is newly made - not original

 

Ok that explains it. Still, nice score. Did you order it from Brazil or did someone stateside have it for sale?

 

It is currently for sale out of Kentucky. Gotten from a county prison in Pennsylvania.

 

Sweet. It will make a fine addition to your den, enjoy.

 

The starting bid is too rich for my blood. But I did want to make TSD aware of it, just in case another collector wanted to go for it.

 

Yeah those are the psycho razors. Expensive because the keys are hard to find.

 

Cooncat / BRW made some of those keys. Such a loss.

Anybody out there have a key and the ability to duplicate it?

 

I'll try to swipe one the next time I'm inside....just kidding. lol

 

If there were any doubt of our being hopeless razor addicts, there isn't any more...

 

Yep, one key was issued (held by the guard or ward attendant) to service several razors. So, there isn't / never was a 1-to-1 ratio between keys and razors.

 

The name gives me the giggles. Wouldn't that be grand on a wedding gift registry? Nothing says true love like:

"Gillette Psycho Razor with Prison Key"

 

The opening bid is $100.00. Too much for a novelty collectible, but I will admit it is interesting.

 

"Girls, lock up your hearts.... and your razors!"

 

While we're on the subject, here's a Grafco Open Comb Psycho Razor with Key.



Edit: Substituted pics from B&B in place of auction razor pics that were not as clear. (Thanks, WeeperWarrior!)

 

I don't think that would be a prison razor. I think it is just missing the retaining band.