24K Gold-Plated (GP) East Asian Buddhist Amulet Card
Religious Medal / Amulet Card · Yellow Gold plating over a base metal core
Purity: 24KGP (Gold Plated). This indicates a thin layer of 24-karat gold (99.9% pure) electroplated over a base metal, likely brass or steel. It is not solid gold.
Type
Religious Medal / Amulet Card
Purity
24KGP (Gold Plated). This indicates a thin layer of 24-karat gold (99.9% pure) electroplated over a base metal, likely brass or steel. It is not solid gold.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating over a base metal core
Weight
2-5 grams. This is a very thin, lightweight metallic card designed to fit in a wallet or charm pouch.
Description
A rectangular metallic amulet featuring religious scripts and a large red seal. The item served as a spiritual token of protection, prosperity, or good luck. The bright 24K gold plating gives it a sacred appearance intended for display or safekeeping in a wallet.
Key Features
The '24KGP' mark is the primary identifier for its metal content. The large red vertical seal and the columns of text (Buddhist mantra) are its defining cultural features.
Color & Finish
High-luster yellow gold finish with a matte/brushed gold background and printed/engraved red and black character detailing.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Visible '24KGP' stamp in the bottom right corner of the card. The central text includes East Asian characters (likely Hanja/Kanji) and what appears to be a protective Buddhist mantra.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 50mm x 30mm; credit card width but significantly shorter in length, ultra-thin profile (under 1mm).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The card features red ink stamping and black printed/etched text on a gold-plated surface.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; this is a flat card designed for pocket or wallet carry.
Chain & Links
Not applicable.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped metal sheet with electroplated finish. The text is likely applied via silk-screening or laser etching rather than hand-engraving.
Authentication Indicators
The 'GP' in '24KGP' is the critical indicator that this is plated and not solid gold. Solid gold bars of this size would not typically feature printed ink text/seals directly on the surface.
Origin & Maker
Likely East Asian origin (Korea, Japan, or China); these are often produced for Buddhist temples as protective talismans.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2000s-present). These mass-produced spiritual amulets are common in modern East Asian temples and gift shops.
Age Estimate
Likely produced within the last 10-20 years.
Cultural Significance
Represents the intersection of modern manufacturing and ancient spiritual practices in East Asia. Gold is used here to symbolize purity, eternity, and the divine nature of the Buddha.
Condition Notes
Very Good. There is minor edge wear visible on the bottom left corner where the plating has slightly thinned, exposing the darker base metal.
Value Estimate
Primarily sentimental or decorative value. Resale value is typically $5–$20. The gold content is negligible (microns thick) and cannot be recovered profitably through melting.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use chemical cleaners or ultrasonic machines, as the plating is extremely thin and will wear off, revealing the base metal underneath.
Similar Items
Solid 24K gold 'Tahoe' or 'Red Envelope' thin gold foils. Unlike this GP item, solid gold foils are much thinner (paper-like) and specifically marked with weight (e.g., 0.1g or 0.2g) and 'Au 999'.
Interesting Facts
These cards often contain the 'Mantra of Light' or protective prayers. They are believed to offer spiritual protection to the bearer when kept close to the body.