Description
Spectacular Lowentraut “20th Century” Combination Brace‑Wrench — Patent December 4, 1904 • Johnston/Lowentraut Markings • 95% Nickel
A spectacular example of the Lowentraut “20th Century” combination brace‑wrench, built on the December 4, 1904 patent—the final and most refined of the three patents granted to Samuel Johnston of Leesburg, Virginia. Johnston designed the tool; Peter Lowentraut of Newark manufactured and marketed it, celebrating the final patent by casting “20th Century” prominently into the side.
This example carries all the correct markings, including the patent date and the rare “Territories for Sale S.J. Johnson Leesburg, Virginia” stamp—an important and highly desirable detail that ties the tool directly to Johnston’s original commercial ambitions.
Nickel plating is an outstanding 95%, bright and clean, and the wood is very clean, showing excellent preservation. Mechanically, the tool retains the bold, inventive character that makes these combination brace‑wrenches one of the most sought‑after patented hybrids of the early 20th century.
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