Weathered Gold-Plated Brass Snuff or Pill Box
Case/Box (Pill Box/Snuff Box) · Yellow Gold plating over a base metal alloy (likely brass or copper-heavy bronze).
Purity: Gold-Plated (non-noble base metal). The original gold content is likely a thin layer of 14K-24K gold flash typically under 0.1 microns thick.
Type
Case/Box (Pill Box/Snuff Box)
Purity
Gold-Plated (non-noble base metal). The original gold content is likely a thin layer of 14K-24K gold flash typically under 0.1 microns thick.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating over a base metal alloy (likely brass or copper-heavy bronze).
Weight
40 to 60 grams of base metal. Gold weight is negligible (less than 0.01g).
Description
A utilitarian pocket box featuring a hinged lid and rounded edges. While it once possessed a golden luster, the plating has significantly failed, exposing the reactive base metal beneath. The interior is heavily affected by environmental moisture, leading to a textured green and grey patina typical of aged brass or copper alloys.
Key Features
Rounded rectangular form, simple hinge mechanism, and significant verdigris accumulation at the joint and interior corners.
Color & Finish
Dull yellow luster on the exterior with heavy green oxidation (verdigris) and greyish metallic corrosion on the interior. The finish appears originally polished but is now heavily patinated and worn.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps or purity marks. The presence of green corrosion strongly indicates the absence of solid gold hallmarks.
Dimensions Estimate
Length: 60mm; Width: 45mm; Depth: 20mm (standard pocket-sized accessory).
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible. Decorative value was likely purely metal-based or relied on exterior engraving not visible in the open view.
Clasp & Closure
Friction-fit snap closure with a integrated hinge. The hinge shows significant wear and verdigris buildup.
Chain & Links
N/A. The item is a rigid two-part hinged container with rounded rectangular corners.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped sheet metal construction with a basic rolled hinge. Functional but lacks the precision, thickness, and soldering quality found in fine jewelry or high-end goldsmithing.
Authentication Indicators
The blue-green oxidation is a diagnostic 'red flag' for solid gold; genuine gold of any purity above 10K does not produce bright green copper carbonates. The grey, pitted surface indicates a non-noble base metal.
Origin & Maker
Unknown. Common for European or American mass-market novelty or vanity production. The 'leboncoin' watermark suggests current location in France.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940-1960) or Vintage Revival. The hinge style and box construction are common for mass-produced vanity items of this period.
Age Estimate
Likely 60-80 years old based on the extent of base-metal oxidation and wear to the plating.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the mid-20th-century trend of affordable luxury, where everyday items like pill boxes or snuff cases mimicked the appearance of solid gold wares owned by the upper class.
Condition Notes
Poor to Fair condition. The gold plating is largely worn away or obscured by corrosion. Significant structural oxidation (green verdigris) may weaken the hinge over time.
Value Estimate
Minimal market value ($5 - $15 USD). The value is purely decorative or as a curiosity/restoration project, as there is no recoverable precious metal weight.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid moisture and skin oils. The green verdigris can be toxic; it should be stabilized with a mild solvent and soft brush, followed by a microcrystalline wax coating. Do not use gold polishing cloths as they will further remove the remaining thin gold layer.
Similar Items
Solid 18K gold cigarette cases (which will not show green corrosion) or Sterling Silver vermeil boxes (which would show black tarnish rather than green).
Interesting Facts
Items like this were often sold as 'gold tone' or 'electroplated' souvenirs. Because they were often kept in pockets close to the body, perspiration would accelerate the breakdown of the gold layer and the corrosion of the copper-rich base.