Gold-Tone Brass Cylinder Lock Key
Key (Residential/Commercial Hardware) · Gold-tone brass. The warm yellow hue is characteristic of high-copper brass alloys rather than precious gold plating.
Purity: 0K / Non-Gold. This item is composed of brass (copper/zinc alloy). It does not contain precious metal content.
Type
Key (Residential/Commercial Hardware)
Purity
0K / Non-Gold. This item is composed of brass (copper/zinc alloy). It does not contain precious metal content.
Gold Type
Gold-tone brass. The warm yellow hue is characteristic of high-copper brass alloys rather than precious gold plating.
Weight
8 to 12 grams. Standard brass keys fall within this range depending on the bow size and blade length.
Description
A utilitarian brass door key featuring a circular head (bow) and a bitted blade. The object lacks the luster, density, and color consistency of genuine gold. It is an industrial hardware component often mistaken for gold due to its base metal color.
Key Features
Functional bitting (cuts), key ring hole, and longitudinal grooves (keyway) designed to fit a specific lock profile.
Color & Finish
Dull yellow with significant oxidation and surface patina. The finish is a factory-tumbled matte with visible surface scratches and dark pitting.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible. Often these keys bear manufacturer codes (e.g., Schlage, Kwikset) or numerical bitting codes on the reverse bow, which is not shown.
Dimensions Estimate
Length: approx. 2 inches (50mm); Bow Width: 0.75 inches (19mm). Standard small-format cylinder key sizing.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a functional utility object with no decorative stones or inlays.
Clasp & Closure
Semi-circular key ring hole located at the base of the bow for attachment to a keychain.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The blade features standard saw-tooth cuts (bitting) designed to align pins within a lock cylinder.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced through industrial stamping and automated milling. The edges are roughly finished and designed for utility over aesthetics.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags: Incorrect color depth, presence of greenish/brown oxidation (common in copper alloys), lack of purity hallmarks, and surface pitting inconsistent with precious metals.
Origin & Maker
Likely a major hardware manufacturer such as Kwikset, Schlage, or a generic blank maker like Ilco or Hy-Ko.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern. This style of pin-tumbler key has been the standard for residential security since the mid-20th century.
Age Estimate
Likely 5 to 20 years old, based on the level of surface oxidation and mechanical wear on the bitting.
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes security, access, and property ownership in modern society.
Condition Notes
Fair. Significant surface oxidation (verdigris appearing as dark spots), heavy scratches, and worn bitting edges. Functional but aesthetically degraded.
Value Estimate
Melt/Scrap Value: $0.05 - $0.10 (based on current scrap brass prices). Retail Value: $2.00 (as a replacement blank). No precious metal value.
Care & Maintenance
If used as a key, keep dry to prevent further oxidation. If kept as a souvenir, a brass cleaner (like Brasso) will restore the shine, though it will not increase value.
Similar Items
Decorative 14K gold key pendants or 'Key to the City' commemorative items, which would be stamped with '14K' and have a much higher polish.
Interesting Facts
Brass is used for keys because it is 'self-lubricating' and softer than the internal pins of the lock, which prevents the lock itself from wearing out too quickly.