Vintage Industrial Brass Plumbing Component (LATON Stamped)
Industrial hardware / Plumbing fitting · Yellow Brass (Alloy of Copper and Zinc)
Purity: 0K - Non-precious. This item is not gold; it is composed of brass (a copper-zinc alloy).
Type
Industrial hardware / Plumbing fitting
Purity
0K - Non-precious. This item is not gold; it is composed of brass (a copper-zinc alloy).
Gold Type
Yellow Brass (Alloy of Copper and Zinc)
Weight
150 - 250 grams (Estimated for solid brass construction)
Description
An industrial plumbing or mechanical fitting featuring external threading and a primary body. The stamped 'LATON' serves as a material identifier rather than a brand name, specifically marking the item as brass to distinguish it from steel or bronze in a workshop setting.
Key Features
Industrial threading, 'LATÓN' material stamp, multi-tiered cylindrical body.
Color & Finish
Dull yellow-gold matte finish with heavy surface oxidation and patina consistent with aged brass.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'LATÓN' (Spanish for Brass). No gold purity hallmarks (e.g., 14K, 585) are present.
Dimensions Estimate
Height: 60-80mm; Diameter: 40-50mm (Approximate industrial scale)
Gemstones & Inlays
None; utilitarian industrial design.
Clasp & Closure
Mechanical threading for pipe connection.
Chain & Links
N/A - Rigid industrial fitting.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial casting with machine-cut threads and a cold-stamped material label.
Authentication Indicators
The stamp 'LATÓN' literally translates to 'Brass'. The dull, greenish-yellow patina is a classic indicator of high copper content in brass, not gold.
Origin & Maker
Likely of Spanish or Latin American origin due to the Spanish 'LATÓN' stamp.
Era & Period
Modern / Industrial (Mid-20th Century to Contemporary)
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-2010 (Based on casting and stamping style)
Cultural Significance
Represents standard industrial manufacturing and material labeling practices in Spanish-speaking regions.
Condition Notes
Fair. Shows significant surface oxidation, grime, and minor abrasions consistent with use in plumbing or mechanical environments.
Value Estimate
Melt/Scrap value: $1.00 - $3.00 USD. This item has no precious metal value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with brass polish (like Brasso) to restore shine; avoid acids which can damage the zinc in the alloy.
Similar Items
Bronze fittings, copper pipe connectors, gold-plated decorative hardware.
Interesting Facts
Brass is often mistaken for gold by novices due to its color, but it is much harder, lighter, and will tarnish/oxidize over time.