Vintage Gold-Colored Cast Alloy Keyhole Escutcheon Plate
Architectural Hardware - Door Handle Backplate/Escutcheon · Simulated Gold Finish. Common base metals for this appearance include brass, bronze, or zinc alloy with a yellow-toned coating.
Purity: Non-precious / 0K. This item contains No Real Gold. It is a base metal alloy with a metallic finish.
Type
Architectural Hardware - Door Handle Backplate/Escutcheon
Purity
Non-precious / 0K. This item contains No Real Gold. It is a base metal alloy with a metallic finish.
Gold Type
Simulated Gold Finish. Common base metals for this appearance include brass, bronze, or zinc alloy with a yellow-toned coating.
Weight
250g - 450g (8 - 16 oz). Heavy due to industrial casting of base metals.
Description
An industrial-grade architectural door backplate featuring a skeleton keyhole and a square lever-handle port. While it possesses a metallic yellow hue, it is an example of 'hardware gold'—a finish meant to emulate the look of gold or polished brass on a durable, low-cost base metal.
Key Features
Functional keyhole, square spindle hole, integral mounting studs, and industrial series stamps.
Color & Finish
Dull champagne gold-tone finish with heavy oxidation, gray-black patina, and surface pitting. The surface is weathered and lacks the luster of precious metals.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Contains industrial manufacturing stamps: a circular mark with the number '25', a brand logo (possibly Schlage or Baldwin style), and cast-in part numbers including '335-3 BLOY' or similar industrial designations.
Dimensions Estimate
8 to 10 inches in length, 2.5 inches in width. Standard residential door hardware scale.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The item is purely functional industrial hardware.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. Features two threaded mounting posts for door installation and a square spindle port for a handle.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The structural back features a hollow-cast recessed interior with structural ribbing.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial die-casting. The mold lines are visible, and the finish was likely applied via electroplating or lacquer-coated brass over a zinc or pewter-like alloy.
Authentication Indicators
The 'red flags' for gold authenticity are everywhere: the gray-black oxidative corrosion (gold does not oxidize this way), the cast-in industrial part numbers, and the hollow industrial underside.
Origin & Maker
Industrial hardware manufacturer. Likely American or European origin based on the keyhole profile and numeric markings.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern to late 20th Century (circa 1960s-1980s).
Age Estimate
Approximately 40-60 years old based on the casting method and level of corrosion/pitting.
Cultural Significance
Represents mid-century residential security and standardized home construction hardware.
Condition Notes
Poor to Fair. Significant surface degradation, oxidation, and finish loss are visible on the reverse side. Likely removed from a renovation project.
Value Estimate
$5 - $15 USD as a vintage replacement part. The gold value is zero.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild detergent and a soft brush. Do not use jewelry cleaners as they will strip the remaining industrial finish.
Similar Items
Often confused with solid brass handle sets or, in rare cases, gold-plated luxury hardware from high-end estates.
Interesting Facts
Architectural hardware is often mistaken for precious metals by novice finders because high-quality vintage brass or bronze can develop a weighty, gold-like feel before the finish tarnishes.