Telegraph Key, Morse Code Key

Telegraph Key. Vintage CMI-26003A Navy Flameproof Morse Code Key manufactured by the Central Molding Corporation. Metal and bakelite construction. Flame Proof keys have covered contacts and were used by the U.S. military for CW Morse in environments that may have had flammable gases present. This particular Flame Proof key is stamped “CMI-26003A” and was made by the Moulded Insulator Co. for the US Navy sometime between 1930 and the end of WWII. On the bottom is a Signal Corp stamp On the bottom of the key commonly found on telegraph equipment for the military.
I have not made any mechanical changes to this key. Used but in good condition and well cared for, (photos will validate this) in a nonsmoking environment. Many hams believe that the Navy Flameproof keys are among the finest operating keys. I have too many of these NF keys so I’m thinning the herd. This key is not perfect but it is fully functional and has been used ‘on-air’. Please, inspect BEFORE you bid! Here’s a chance to own a classic piece of CW history. Color of item may be slightly different from the pictures shown here, (due to your screen, color, brightness, etc.).
Payment is expected within 48 hours at end of auction. Buyer agrees to pay for Priority Mail shipping (by USPS, includes tracking & insurance).  Shipping to Continental US addresses ONLY.  Local pickup available to avoid a shipping cost. Unit is sold “AS IS” with no returns.