Gold-Plated Industrial Contact Plate
Gold Scrap / Industrial Component · Yellow Gold plating over base metal (likely nickel or copper alloy)
Purity: Gold-plated (EP/Flash); very low gold content (microns thick)
Type
Gold Scrap / Industrial Component
Purity
Gold-plated (EP/Flash); very low gold content (microns thick)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating over base metal (likely nickel or copper alloy)
Weight
0.5g - 1.2g
Description
An industrial gold-plated metal plate, likely a battery terminal, connector, or shielding component from a consumer electronic device. Its yellow hue is derived from a thin layer of gold applied via electroplating to prevent oxidation and ensure electrical conductivity.
Key Features
Stamped metal tabs, rectangular alignment holes, and a curved central profile for mechanical tension.
Color & Finish
Pale yellow, semi-matte/lustrous industrial plating
Hallmarks & Stamps
None; only industrial registration holes/tabs visible
Dimensions Estimate
Approx. 15mm x 10mm; ultra-thin gauge (sub-millimeter)
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
N/A; contains installation tabs and snap-in pins
Chain & Links
N/A; machine-pressed sheet metal structure
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped and precision-bent; high-volume industrial manufacturing.
Authentication Indicators
Uniform pale color typical of flash plating; lack of precious metal hallmarks; visible base metal edges.
Origin & Maker
Mass-produced electronic component manufacturer
Era & Period
Contemporary (2000s-Present)
Age Estimate
Modern (last 10-20 years)
Cultural Significance
Represents the modern 'Urban Mine'—the recovery of precious metals from discarded technology.
Condition Notes
Good; showing typical production deformation and detachment marks from a master sheet.
Value Estimate
Negligible; primary value is as bulk e-waste scrap (cents per unit).
Care & Maintenance
Store in a dry environment; avoid abrasives which will easily strip the thin gold layer.
Similar Items
Gold-plated CPU pins, SIM card contacts, or gold-filled jewelry wire.
Interesting Facts
The electronics industry consumes roughly 7% of the world's gold annually due to its high conductivity and resistance to corrosion.