Working North Bros Yankee 130A Spiral Ratchet Screwdriver 1923 Patent USA

Tested and working—the spiral drive, directional ratchet and spring-loaded Quick Return mechanism operate properly.  Antique North Bros. Mfg. Co. YANKEE No. 130A Quick Return spiral ratchet screwdriver, made in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. This classic American hand tool is the standard-size No. 130A from North Brothers' famous Yankee line of spiral screwdrivers. The 130A features a spring-loaded Quick Return mechanism that converts a forward push of the handle into rotary motion at the screwdriver bit, allowing screws to be driven or removed rapidly without repeatedly repositioning the tool. The original barrel is clearly marked YANKEE No. 130A / NORTH BROS. MFG. CO. / PHILA. PA. U.S.A. / PAT. DEC. 11. 23 / MADE IN UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. The December 11, 1923 patent marking relates to the improved mechanism used in North Brothers' “A” series of Yankee spiral tools. The 130A was introduced following this development and this North Bros.-marked example dates to the company's pre-Stanley production era, approximately 1920s–1940s. Features include the original-style dark wooden handle, metal barrel with aged brass-colored finish, steel spiral shaft, knurled chuck, directional ratchet selector and Quick Return spring mechanism. Includes the slotted Yankee screwdriver bit shown in the photographs. The No. 130A uses the approximately 9/32 (.280) Yankee shank size. Condition is antique and used with substantial authentic age-related wear including scratches, patina,...