Maxell Alkaline AAA Gold-Colored Battery
Electronic Component - AAA Alkaline Battery · Brass/Bronze-toned industrial finish. No gold alloy is present; the color is achieved through metallic printing onto a steel casing wrap.
Purity: Non-precious (0K). This item is composed of industrial metals and chemicals, not solid gold. The gold appearance is a decorative metallic coating or printed ink on a plastic/metal wrapper.
Type
Electronic Component - AAA Alkaline Battery
Purity
Non-precious (0K). This item is composed of industrial metals and chemicals, not solid gold. The gold appearance is a decorative metallic coating or printed ink on a plastic/metal wrapper.
Gold Type
Brass/Bronze-toned industrial finish. No gold alloy is present; the color is achieved through metallic printing onto a steel casing wrap.
Weight
Approximately 11.5 grams. This is the standard weight for an AAA alkaline battery, which is significantly lighter than a solid gold item of the same dimensions.
Description
A standard consumer-grade AAA alkaline battery characterized by its signature 'gold' and 'blue' livery. While it provides electrochemical energy, it contains no precious metal value. It is a utilitarian object designed for powering small devices.
Key Features
Maxell branding, AAA size designation, 'gold' decorative finish, alkaline chemistry indicator, and environmental disposal warnings.
Color & Finish
Yellow-gold metallic gloss with blue accents. The finish is a printed decorative coating on a structural steel or aluminum shell.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No gold hallmarks (e.g., 585, 750). Visible markings include: 'Maxell Ltd.', 'ALKALINE', battery size 'AAA', and a crossed-out wheelie bin (WEEE symbol for electronic waste disposal).
Dimensions Estimate
Length: 44.5 mm; Diameter: 10.5 mm. These are the fixed ISO 14001 standards for the AAA battery form factor.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The item contains industrial chemicals like manganese dioxide, zinc, and potassium hydroxide electrolyte.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. The item features a positive terminal (nub) and a negative terminal (flat bottom) designed for electrical contact.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The cylindrical casing is a continuous rolled-metal tube with a protective outer wrap.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-engineered industrial manufacturing. The shell is cold-drawn steel, the label is a heat-shrunk laminate, and the internal components are machine-filled and crimped for a leak-proof seal.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for gold: Presence of a 'Maxell' logo, 'AAA' size marking, and the environmental disposal icons. It lacks assay marks and has an incorrect weight-to-volume ratio for gold.
Origin & Maker
Japan/Global manufacture by Maxell, Ltd., a consumer electronics company primarily known for data storage and battery technology.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2010s-present). Based on the modern logo design of the Maxell brand and the mandatory environmental recycling icons.
Age Estimate
Circa 2018-2023. This is based on current packaging graphics and typical shelf-life indicators for alkaline batteries.
Cultural Significance
Represents the widespread use of disposable energy in the modern digital age, highlighting the transition from analog mechanical components to battery-powered portable electronics.
Condition Notes
Good. Surface appears intact with no visible leakage or terminal corrosion. Minor scuffs on the metallic wrap suggest standard retail handling.
Value Estimate
Melt Value: $0.00. Retail Value: Approximately $0.50 - $1.50 USD depending on the quantity purchased in a pack. No numismatic or precious metal value.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a cool, dry place. Remove from devices when not in use for long periods to prevent potassium hydroxide leakage (corrosion). Do not clean with water or polish.
Similar Items
Duracell (Copper-top), Energizer (Silver-tone), and other alkaline batteries. These differ in chemistry (lithium vs. alkaline) and branding colors but share the same dimensions.
Interesting Facts
The 'gold' color on batteries is a marketing tool used by companies like Maxell and Duracell to signify 'high quality' or 'long-lasting' power, utilizing the psychological association of gold with premium value.