The key, or keys, that granted entry to the tower of Orthanc. At the time of the Oath of Eorl, the tower was sealed by the Gondorians, and the key taken to Minas Tirith. Only at the request of Saruman, many years later, did Beren, Steward of Gondor, surrender the key to him, and Saruman took up his abode in the ancient Gondorian stronghold.