Gold-Plated Cylindrical Electronic Component or Industrial Contact
Industrial Scrap / Electrical Connector · Yellow Gold plating; likely 24K or high-karat hard gold for conductivity
Purity: Gold-plated (EP or Bonded) over base metal (likely copper or brass)
Type
Industrial Scrap / Electrical Connector
Purity
Gold-plated (EP or Bonded) over base metal (likely copper or brass)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating; likely 24K or high-karat hard gold for conductivity
Weight
2 to 4 grams total weight (mostly base metal)
Description
A small, cylindrical gold-toned metal component featuring a hollow core and a single wire lead extending from the base. This is a functional electronic contact or sleeve common in high-end machinery where gold’s corrosion resistance is vital.
Key Features
Cylindrical barrel shape, rolled edges, and a thin integrated wire lead with traces of silver-colored solder at the tip.
Color & Finish
Vivid yellow gold color with a semi-matte to satin industrial finish
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible; industrial parts rarely carry jewelry-style hallmarks
Dimensions Estimate
Length: ~10mm, Diameter: ~8mm, Wire lead: ~12mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None; purely functional industrial design
Clasp & Closure
None; wire-lead attachment for soldering into a circuit
Chain & Links
N/A; features a singular thin copper-core wire tail
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped and electroplated; functional precision with no decorative intent.
Authentication Indicators
The 'brassy' luster and thin wire attachment suggest an industrial plating rather than solid gold construction.
Origin & Maker
Unknown industrial manufacturer; possibly telecommunications or aerospace sector
Era & Period
Contemporary Industrial (late 20th to 21st century)
Age Estimate
Likely produced within the last 20-30 years
Cultural Significance
Represents the modern 'Digital Gold' age where the metal's value is purely utility-based rather than ornamental.
Condition Notes
Fair; shows surface scratches, tool marks, and remains of solder indicating it was salvaged or removed from a device.
Value Estimate
Negligible; primary value is as industrial copper scrap. Gold content is likely only a few microns thick (cents in value).
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry; if collected for scrap value, avoid harsh abrasives that would strip the thin gold plating.
Similar Items
Gold-plated PCB pins, CPU pins, or high-end audio connectors which have similar aesthetic but different geometries.
Interesting Facts
Gold is used in electronics because it is the most non-reactive and highly conductive metal, surviving where copper would corrode.