This I think may be the top off of a large roman period key...although happy to be given a better identification
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Large Roman Key ?
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Could well be. The actual mechanism of Roman locks was usually principally iron, and so iron was a preferred material for the bit and the tine(s) of the key intended to operate it. That iron portion was frequently clad in bronze to provide a handle. When that’s the case, the iron frequently rusts away, just leaving the bronze handle.
Apologies for the crappo picture but this one is similar, with the bit beginning to rust away:
[Picture adapted from Ex Preteritus]
I can see a nub of something at the end of yours which looks like it might be the remnant of the bit. Try a magnet on that portion to see if it’s iron. Even if rusted, it should still have some attraction.
I keep six honest serving-men (they taught me all I knew); Their names are What and Why and When and How and Where and Who.
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