Chiffriermaschine (the word for 'cipher machine' in German) was established in 2020 as an online museum for cryptologic objects collected by Patrick Hayes. Based in Warwickshire, in the West Midlands, the collection includes many rare pieces, such as the only known set of Enigma rotors rewired for use by Croatian Home Guard in 1944 and an exceptionally rare set of training-related manuscripts connected to Austrian codebreaking training in the late 1930s. Whilst it isn't currently possible to view the collection in-person, Patrick is open to exhibition opportunities.
In addition to his personal acquisitions, Patrick also offers sales, valuation and brokerage services to museums, dealers and collectors. With institutional and private clients across Europe and North America, he has overseen the sale of a number of historically significant objects, including a signature book from the early days of the UK Government intelligence agency GCHQ, as well as rare German codebooks and Enigma machines from the Second World War. He is valued by his clients for his research, negotiation and communication skills in facilitating sales worth tens of thousands of pounds.
Chiffriermaschine is always looking to expand and improve its collection. Have an item that you think may be of interest? Do get in touch.
About Patrick Hayes
Patrick holds a B.A. (Hons) History degree from University of Durham, where he was a member of University College. He has experience in collections management and object handling, volunteering at the Bletchley Park Trust for the Collections Move Project between July and September 2022. He also serves as the webmaster of the International Conference on Cryptologic History (ICCH) and is former archivist of the University College J.C.R. He now works as a valuer and describer for a UK auction house.
Email: patrick@chiffriermaschine.com