Gold-Plated/Copper-Alloy $100 Benjamin Franklin Novelty Bullion Bar
Novelty Bar/Ingot · Yellow Gold (Plating); the underlying tone is deep reddish-bronze, suggesting a high copper content alloy under a thin gold layer.
Purity: Non-solid gold; likely 24K gold-plated over copper or brass base metal. No fineness markings (e.g., .999) are visible to support a solid gold claim.
Type
Novelty Bar/Ingot
Purity
Non-solid gold; likely 24K gold-plated over copper or brass base metal. No fineness markings (e.g., .999) are visible to support a solid gold claim.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Plating); the underlying tone is deep reddish-bronze, suggesting a high copper content alloy under a thin gold layer.
Weight
Between 1 to 2 troy ounces (approx. 31.1g to 60g) depending on thickness and core metal density.
Description
This is a novelty commemorative bar designed to mimic the aesthetic of the United States $100 Federal Reserve Note. It features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin within an oval frame, flanked by ornate scrollwork and currency identifiers. While designed to look like bullion, the surface wear and oxidation suggest this is a gold-plated base metal collectible rather than investment-grade solid gold. These items are often sold as 'tribute' bars or desktop ornaments.
Key Features
Detailed replica of currency engraving; high relief portrait; rounded 'tablet' shape; absence of official weight and fineness markings usually found on investment bars.
Color & Finish
Deep warm copper-gold tone with a bright polished rim and satin-textured field. Significant reddish patina and surface oxidation visible in recessed areas.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No official assay or purity hallmarks; contains decorative stamps replicating a $100 bill: serial numbers 'B08231977M', '100' denominations, and facsimile signatures.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 50mm x 28mm x 3mm; consistent with standard 1oz novelty art bars.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features struck decorative reliefs and micro-texturing to simulate paper currency engraving.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; solid rectangular bar with a smooth, slightly rounded edge.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; edge is smooth and solid, typical of struck bullion-style collectibles.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck from a prepared die; clean lettering and recognizable portraiture, but lacks the mirror-finish fields and sharp frost found on high-end numismatic proofs.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for solid gold: Lack of .999 or 24K hallmark; reddish/bronze oxidation inconsistent with high-purity gold; irregular surface luster; likely non-standard weight.
Origin & Maker
Private Mint (unspecified); likely a novelty manufacturer based in the US or China. This is not a government-issued tender item.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century - Present); specifically reflecting modern US currency design post-1996.
Age Estimate
Likely produced between 2000 and 2020 based on the design language of the modern 'big head' Benjamin Franklin $100 note.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gold Standard' of American currency; Benjamin Franklin's image on the $100 bill has become a global pop-culture symbol for wealth and success ('Benjamins').
Condition Notes
Good condition; showing significant surface scratches (hairlines) across the flat planes and distinct copper-colored oxidation (tarnishing) that indicates plating wear.
Value Estimate
Nominal value ($5 - $20 USD); the value is purely decorative/novelty. It lacks significant melt value due to the absence of solid gold content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with a soft micro-fiber cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners as the gold plating is likely very thin and will rub off to reveal the base metal beneath.
Similar Items
Solid .999 Gold 1oz bars (PAMP, Engelhard), Gold-clad $100 coins, Copper bullion bars with the same design, and Silver-plated 'Benjamin' bars.
Interesting Facts
These bars are often sold on late-night TV or internet marketplaces as 'clad' or 'tribute' items. Modern $100 bills are the most counterfeited US denomination, leading to high interest in currency-themed collectibles.