Photo credit: Seth Gould via Twisted Sifter
Coffer appears to be a normal chest at first, but this amazing project by metal-smith Seth Gould took 2 years to complete, and is actually a puzzle box made entirely from wrought iron, pure iron, steel and brass. What makes it even more amazing is that all the parts, screws and springs included, were handmade. The forging was done using a coal forge, hammer, anvil, and power hammer. Once the pieces are close to their finished shape, they were moved to the bench to refine the surface and then shaped with a file. Read more for a video, additional pictures and information.
The majority of the pieces, like the bolts, levers, and staples, are made from wrought iron, a material used primarily for its working properties. Unfortunately, wrought iron is no longer manufactured, so each piece needed to be hand forged from salvaged material.
“Other major components of the Coffer include the springs, screws, keys, and molding. Each screw is made through a combination of machine and handwork. The springs are made from high carbon steel that I polish, wrap, heat treat, and polish again. The keys are each fabricated out of three pieces. The bows are wrapped and forge welded, and the bits forged from solid material,” said Gould.