Convict leg irons and handcuffs were among rare and unusual pieces of Australian history sold at auction on Thursday.
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The “eclectic collection” of items from the convict period, alongside bushranger and gold rush-related items and antique paintings, proved popular at Armitage Auctions.
“The majority came from a couple of main places,” auctioneer Neil O’Brien said.
“Both were deceased estates. One in the Midlands, the other in Longford.”
The highest priced piece of furniture sold was a cedar bookcase, which went for $6200.
A watercolour painting by John Glover sold for $9000, and an antique Flintlock pistol went for $2400.
A set of convict leg irons without a key sold for $4000, while two other sets with a key sold for $725 and $825.
“The convict items were really sought after,” Mr O’Brien said.