Nickel-Plated Brass Silca Key Blank
Key (Utility Hardware) · None (Metallic silver-toned plating)
Purity: Non-gold; 0% purity (Nickel-plated brass base)
Type
Key (Utility Hardware)
Purity
Non-gold; 0% purity (Nickel-plated brass base)
Gold Type
None (Metallic silver-toned plating)
Weight
8-12 grams
Description
This is a utilitarian nickel-plated brass key blank manufactured by Silca, one of the world's leading producers of key replacement systems. It features a characteristic octagonal or 'waisted' head design with a cross-hatch grip texture and a recessed logo panel. This is not a gold item but a common industrial piece used for residential or commercial locks.
Key Features
Silca logo, cross-hatch textured head, standard cylinder key blade profile with longitudinal grooves.
Color & Finish
Dull silver-grey with nickel-plated matte and cross-hatched textured finish
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with SILCA brand logo; likely reverse side contains a model number (e.g. UL050 or YA2E)
Dimensions Estimate
Length: 55-65mm; Width (Head): 22-25mm; Thickness: 2mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Key ring hole (punched circular aperture)
Chain & Links
Standard utility grooved blade; reeded and milled profile
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped from sheet brass with electroplated nickel finish; industrial mass production standards.
Authentication Indicators
Silca brand stamp identifies this as a mass-produced hardware item; weight and metallic sheen are inconsistent with white gold or silver.
Origin & Maker
Italy; Silca S.p.A. (Vittorio Veneto)
Era & Period
Contemporary Industrial (Late 20th Century to Present)
Age Estimate
Produced within the last 20-30 years
Cultural Significance
Represents the standard of modern security and lock-and-key manufacturing technology used globally.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; visible surface oxidation, scratches, and moderate wear consistent with frequent use or pocket carry.
Value Estimate
Nominal / Scrap value only; retail replacement for a blank is approx $1.00-$3.00.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent oxidation of the brass core where plating has worn away; no special cleaning required.
Similar Items
Other key manufacturers include JMA, Mr. Minit, and Ilco; visually resembles white gold or silver to an untrained eye but lacks precious metal characteristics.
Interesting Facts
Silca is an Italian company founded in 1917 and is now part of the dormakaba Group; they produce over 60,000 different key blank models.