Vintage Gold-Plated Bezel Coin Mount Frame with Scalloped Edge
Jewelry Component / Coin Mount Bezel · Yellow gold finish over brass or copper-based alloy.
Purity: Likely low-karat gold plating (less than 1 micron) over a base metal alloy. The visible oxidation and tarnishing suggest it is not solid gold.
Type
Jewelry Component / Coin Mount Bezel
Purity
Likely low-karat gold plating (less than 1 micron) over a base metal alloy. The visible oxidation and tarnishing suggest it is not solid gold.
Gold Type
Yellow gold finish over brass or copper-based alloy.
Weight
2 - 5 grams (estimated weight of the frame and tabs only).
Description
An empty, vintage gold-toned bezel frame designed to house a coin or a flat-backed medallion. The frame features a decorative scalloped border and three integrated tabs meant for manual setting. The interior shows significant signs of age and loss of finish, revealing a darker base metal underneath.
Key Features
Scalloped decorative outer rim, three-tab fold-over security system, circular mounting well.
Color & Finish
Dull yellow gold color with significant patina, dark oxidation spots, and surface corrosion inside the mounting well.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible purity hallmarks or stamps; common in semi-finished jewelry components or costume-grade findings.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 25mm - 30mm inner diameter, designed to hold a standard sized coin or medallion.
Gemstones & Inlays
None present; designed as a mount for an external focal point like a coin or porcelain cabochon.
Clasp & Closure
Features three fold-over tabs intended to be bent over the edge of the insert to secure it in place.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; however, the outer frame features a decorative scalloped or 'fancy' edge construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Stamped construction from flat sheet metal; machine-cut scalloped edges with manual fold-tabs for setting.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for solid gold include the uneven dark spotting, the grey/green tint of the oxidized areas, and the lack of precision hallmarks usually found on solid gold findings.
Origin & Maker
Likely a mass-produced jewelry finding from a manufacturer such as those found in Providence, RI (USA) or Pforzheim (Germany).
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1950s-1970s), characterized by the use of prong/tab mountings for commemorative coins or souvenir jewelry.
Age Estimate
Circa 40 to 60 years old based on the style of the tabs and the extent of the base-metal oxidation.
Cultural Significance
Represents the DIY jewelry trend of the mid-20th century where coins were treated as status symbols or mementos of personal history.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant plating loss (brassing) and oxidation visible on the interior surface; surface grime and possible verdigris present.
Value Estimate
Minimal ($1 - $5). Intrinsic value is negligible due to being a plated base metal; value is primarily for replacement of a missing vintage component.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with a very soft dry cloth. Avoid moisture or jewelry cleaners, as the current oxidation indicates the plating is thin and easily further damaged.
Similar Items
Solid 14K Gold Screw-top Bezels; Sterling Silver Coin Mounts; gold-filled prong mounts.
Interesting Facts
Coin bezels were extremely popular in the mid-century as 'traveler jewelry,' allowing people to mount coins collected during international trips as pendants.