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Which countries have used locks based on the ancient Egyptian design?
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lock
Figure 1: Ancient Egyptian lock
The ancient Egyptian lock, also known as a pin tumbler lock, has been utilized in several regions throughout history. Beyond its origins in Egypt, where it remains in use today, this design has been found in:
- Japan1
- Norway1
- The Faeroe Islands1
- India1
- Zanzibar1
The fundamental falling-pin principle of this ancient device was later adapted by Linus Yale in the 19th century to create the modern pin tumbler lock, which is now one of the most widely used security mechanisms globally.12