Sumatran Industrial Cast Bar (Counterfeit/Novelty)
Gold Bar/Ingot · Brass/Bronze alloy appearance with partial yellow plating
Purity: Marked 999.9 Fine (Disclaimer: Item appears to be a plated base-metal replica or novelty brass casting)
Type
Gold Bar/Ingot
Purity
Marked 999.9 Fine (Disclaimer: Item appears to be a plated base-metal replica or novelty brass casting)
Gold Type
Brass/Bronze alloy appearance with partial yellow plating
Weight
Estimated 500g - 1kg based on physical size and visual volume
Description
A heavy rectangular cast metal bar featuring crude hand-aligned serial numbers and Indonesian Bank references; designed to look like a recovered gold brick from a vault or shipwreck.
Key Features
Raised 'A.U' chemical symbol, crude five-star constellation pattern, and irregular '999.9' purity punch marks.
Color & Finish
Dull brownish-brass patina with chipped golden plating exposing gray/dark base metal underneath
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '999.9', 'A.U', 'DIKNOTBANK SUMATRA', Five Stars, and Serial '041224'
Dimensions Estimate
Length approx. 12-15cm, Width approx. 5cm, Thickness approx. 2-3cm
Gemstones & Inlays
None present; industrial stamped markings only
Clasp & Closure
N/A; Solid rectangular form
Chain & Links
N/A; Beveled edges with rough cast surface
Craftsmanship Details
Coarse sand-casting method; uneven stamping suggests hand-punched manual labor rather than precision hydraulic pressing.
Authentication Indicators
Significant red flags: Flaking 'gold' reveals a darker core; crude, uneven stamps not consistent with professional minting and assay standards; weight-to-volume ratio appears too light for pure gold.
Origin & Maker
Likely unauthorized Indonesian/Sumatran local workshop or novelty manufacturer
Era & Period
Contemporary fantasy/novelty production attempting to mimic historical treasure
Age Estimate
Late 20th to early 21st century
Cultural Significance
Represents the myth of Southeast Asian 'Hidden Gold' often linked to legends like the Yamashita Treasure.
Condition Notes
Poor; extensive surface oxidation, flaking of top-layer plating, and irregular casting pits throughout.
Value Estimate
$10 - $50 (Novelty value only; zero intrinsic gold melt value based on visual flaking)
Care & Maintenance
Do not attempt to polish with abrasives; keep dry to prevent further base-metal corrosion.
Similar Items
Copper-nickel bars, brass novelty paperweights, and genuine PAMP or Credit Suisse bullion.
Interesting Facts
Bars of this nature are frequently used in 'Gold Bar Scams' where sellers claim to find them in remote jungle locations or ancestral hoards.