Vintage Silver-Tone/Rhodium Plated Decorative Coin Purse Frame
Purse/Handbag Component (Frame) · None. The item exhibits a silver-white metallic luster inconsistent with gold alloys (yellow, white, or rose gold).
Purity: Non-gold/Base Metal. This item appears to be steel or brass with a nickel or chrome-like plating; it lacks gold fineness markings.
Type
Purse/Handbag Component (Frame)
Purity
Non-gold/Base Metal. This item appears to be steel or brass with a nickel or chrome-like plating; it lacks gold fineness markings.
Gold Type
None. The item exhibits a silver-white metallic luster inconsistent with gold alloys (yellow, white, or rose gold).
Weight
35-55 grams. The weight is derived from base metal density; if platinum or white gold, it would be significantly heavier, which is unlikely for this utility item.
Description
A vintage metallic purse frame designed to be sewn into a fabric or beaded bag. It features a squared 'U' shape with a mechanical hinge and a classic kiss-lock closure. The exterior surface is treated with a repetitive dot texture to add visual interest. While it mimics the look of white gold or platinum, the surface wear indicates it is an industrial accessory component rather than a precious metal item.
Key Features
Hinged frame construction, kiss-lock closure knobs, and a stippled textured finish. The pre-drilled holes for sewing onto fabric are invisible, suggesting it may have been a 'pressure-fit' or glue-in style frame.
Color & Finish
Silver-tone metallic with a textured 'stippled' or 'pocked' surface pattern on the outer face. Visible oxidation and tarnish appearing as brownish-orange spots suggest a base metal core like steel or iron.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible. Usually found on the interior bridge or near the hinge; however, absence of marks suggests mass-produced haberdashery rather than fine jewelry.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 10cm x 12cm. A standard size for a medium clutch or larger coin purse frame.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The surface is decorated with a mechanical stamped texture designed to catch light, simulating a mesh or beaded effect.
Clasp & Closure
Kiss-lock/Snap clasp. Features two interlocking metallic knobs that bypass each other to secure the frame via friction/tension.
Chain & Links
N/A. The frame features side hinge pins for mechanical articulation but does not incorporate a decorative chain.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped and mass-produced. The hinges are pinned rather than hand-fitted, and the decorative pattern is applied via a mechanical roller or die-stamp.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for gold: The presence of rust/orange corrosion is a definitive indicator of a ferrous (iron-based) base metal. Lack of hallmarks, uneven surface color, and industrial hinge construction rule out solid gold or silver.
Origin & Maker
Unidentified. Likely a mass-market accessory component from Europe or the United States, typically manufactured for the textile/handbag industry.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (Circa 1940s-1960s). The shape and stippled finish are characteristic of mid-century evening bags and cocktail accessories.
Age Estimate
50-70 years old. Evidenced by the mechanical hinge style and the specific type of surface pitting/corrosion present on the finish.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'make do and mend' and mid-century glamour eras where such frames were sold individually to women who crafted their own evening bags to match specific outfits.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant surface oxidation (rust) is visible on the lower left and bottom sections. The plating is wearing thin, exposing the base metal beneath. Hinges appear functional but show signs of stiffness.
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $15.00. Value is purely as a vintage craft supply or curiosity; it contains no precious metal melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a dry soft cloth. Avoid moisture which will accelerate the existing rust. Do not use jewelry cleaners meant for gold, as the chemicals may further strip the remaining plating.
Similar Items
Sterling Silver Victorian Chatelaine bags, 14K White Gold evening clutches (rare), or modern stainless steel bag frames.
Interesting Facts
Before zippers became ubiquitous, these hinged frames were the primary method for securing personal items. Solid gold versions exist but were predominantly made by high-end houses like Cartier or Van Cleef & Arpels and were always hallmarked.