Greetings from a new member. I have a Newhouse #5 Bear Trap. From my limited research I believe it is referred to as the “Patent Date Model”. I know zero about its history. I picked it up a Community Wide Garage Sale and the seller had no information about it. The Trap shows considerable signs of exposure and pitting. I am seeking suggestions as to how to curtail or prevent further corrosion, preferably some type of liquid solution that will not result in oily or sticky surfaces or negatively affect the traps eye appeal. Thanks in Advance. Eclectic Collector.

Congratulations on your Newhouse bear trap! Yes, this is the patent date model, they were made from about 1914 to 1930. it is pitted and that is what it is and can not be fixed. keeping it inside and dry will prevent further rust. You can clean it with WD40 and some light brushing, then dry with paper towels. You can give it a light coat of wax made for wood or floors if you like.

That is exactly what I did shortly after picking it up. Thanks for the reply.

What's a Newhouse No. 5 in good condition worth these days ?

Good condition is a bit of a misnomer. The trap above would grade good condition. You could get a 5 in that shape between 400-1500$.

Most collectors want traps in excellent condition they can be worth considerably more than those numbers depending on rarity of stampings.