Nickel-Plated Brass Master Lock Padlock Key
Key (Utility Hardware) · N/A. The item exhibits a silvery, metallic appearance consistent with nickel plating over brass.
Purity: None (0%). This item is not solid gold, gold-filled, or gold-plated. It is composed of a non-precious base metal alloy.
Type
Key (Utility Hardware)
Purity
None (0%). This item is not solid gold, gold-filled, or gold-plated. It is composed of a non-precious base metal alloy.
Gold Type
N/A. The item exhibits a silvery, metallic appearance consistent with nickel plating over brass.
Weight
5 to 8 grams
Description
A standard utility key for a Master Lock padlock. The key features a bow (head) with a textured grip pattern for torque and a bitted blade designed for a pin-tumbler lock mechanism. While the yellowish tint in the groove may mimic gold, it is actually the underlying brass alloy showing through the worn nickel plating.
Key Features
Paracentric keyway guide, factory bitting for a four or five pin tumbler, and the iconic Master Lock embossed logo.
Color & Finish
Silver-colored metallic finish with a textured, peened head and a polished, smooth blade. Visible brass-colored wear in the central groove (keyway guide) indicates the base metal.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The brand name 'Master' is stamped in a recessed rectangular frame on the head. No precious metal hallmarks (such as 10K, 14K, 750) are present.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 2 inches in length; standard M1 keyway profile.
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
N/A; attached to a standard split-style steel key ring.
Chain & Links
N/A; utilizes a standard steel split-ring for attachment.
Craftsmanship Details
High-volume industrial stamping and milling. The bitting (teeth) is machine-cut for precision alignment with lock pins.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for gold: The 'Master' brand stamp is a hardware manufacturer, not a jeweler. The yellow color is localized to high-friction areas rather than being uniform. Lack of purity stamps confirms it is industrial hardware.
Origin & Maker
Master Lock Company, USA/Mexico
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern (late 20th century to present)
Age Estimate
Likely manufactured within the last 10-20 years based on stamp style and wear.
Cultural Significance
Iconic symbol of security and access control in North America.
Condition Notes
Good; showing functional wear. Significant plating loss is visible in the deepest part of the longitudinal groove, revealing the yellow-colored brass core.
Value Estimate
Negligible ($1.00 - $3.00 as a replacement blank). It holds no precious metal value or melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent oxidation of the underlying brass. If sticking occurs in a lock, apply a dry graphite lubricant.
Similar Items
Schlage or Kwikset residential keys, which are often also made of nickel-plated or bare brass.
Interesting Facts
Brass is chosen for keys because it is self-lubricating and softer than the steel pins inside a lock, preventing internal damage to the lock mechanism over time.