Description

Armored Car Key:

When the former Yugoslavia began to break-up, journalists covering the conflicts were killed or wounded at an alarming rate. This prompted the press to look for additional safety measures while pursuing dangerous stories. As a result, media organizations began investing in armored vehicles for staff working in war zones.

The vehicles were expensive and, when operating in areas where many rogue elements existed, theft of the car was always a possibility. One counter-measure to prevent theft was a hidden kill switch that would keep the engine from starting.

The plastic red key in the collection was used to turn on a kill switch, located in a hidden location. It allowed the crew to walk away from the vehicle, knowing no one could drive away while the vehicle was unattended.