Abstract: The invention relates to a magnetic-card operated mechanism for closing and opening safes and to safes embodying it. The mechanism is powered by batteries and comprises means for reading a magnetic card, an electronic activating circuit and a locking mechanism, and is provided with electronic means for permanently storing information, with means for changing the power drawn from the batteries between at least one high level and one low level, with means for checking the correctness of the card code and of its reading, and with means for enabling the card to actuate the mechanism only if the result of the check is positive. The mechanism comprises an electrically actuated locking device powered by an electric motor and may also comprise additional manual locking means, which are blocked in the locking position or are released therefrom by the electrically actuated device.