You are looking at  New York City Subway Car Strap.  It was made for standees to hold on to.  They were bolted to the ceiling.

The original 2^nd  Ave, 3^rd Ave, 6^th & 9^th Ave elevated cars from the late 1800's through the early 1900's had swinging leather straps for this purpose, hence the name.

When the IRT opened in 1904, the subway cars had porcelain handles.  When the new Redbird cars came on line in the 1950's, these straps like the one pictured, were made of non-magnetic stainless steel.  The length is 18".

This strap was in use at the time of the 9/11 tragedy.  It is the last of straps as they have been replaced in the new cars with a single bar. 

Old and in excellent condition.

Unique item.  Own a piece of history.

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