Copper-Plated Industrial Steel Coil Component
Mechanical Hardware / Electrical Component · Unknown industrial manufacturer; likely a sub-contractor for automotive or electronics assembly.
Pattern: Non-decorative; functional industrial part
Type
Mechanical Hardware / Electrical Component
Maker
Unknown industrial manufacturer; likely a sub-contractor for automotive or electronics assembly.
Material
Copper-plated steel base with enameled copper wire. Does not contain silver.
Dimensions
Small-scale component, approximately 2-3 cm in length; weight is negligible (likely 5-10 grams).
Description
This is a functional industrial component rather than a silver collectible. It features a copper-plated metal frame housing a tightly wound coil of enameled wire, commonly found in relays, solenoid valves, or small motor assemblies.
Key Features
Copper-colored finish, coiled wire core, stamped metal housing, and loop terminal.
Material & Composition
Copper-plated steel base with enameled copper wire. Does not contain silver.
Finish & Decoration
Industrial copper wash or plating for conductivity or corrosion resistance. No decorative elements.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver hallmarks; possible small circular manufacturer mold mark visible on the housing.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped housing with a precision-wound internal coil; assembly involves folding tabs and tension-fitting.
Functional Features
Spring-loaded mechanism or inductive coil housed in a protective shielding frame.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; features a looped terminal or attachment point for mechanical mounting.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-manufactured for high-tolerance industrial standards; lacks the hand-finishing found in silver hollowware.
Authentication Indicators
Complete absence of silver hallmarks (Sterling, .925, Lion Passant). The color and texture are indicative of base metal plating rather than solid precious metal.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely mass-produced in a high-volume manufacturing center such as China, Taiwan, or Germany.
Era & Period
Modern Industrial Era (late 20th to 21st century).
Age Estimate
Circa 2000-present day based on stamping precision and wire insulation type.
Cultural Significance
Represents the mass-production of consumer electronics and automotive subsystems.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor; showing signs of physical wear, possible oxidation, and mechanical stress at the attachment point.
Value Estimate
Negligible; strictly scrap metal or functional replacement value (under $1.00).
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent oxidation of the base steel and copper plating. Not suitable for silver polishing agents.
Similar Pieces
Automotive solenoid coils, electrical relays, and inductor housings.
Interesting Facts
Items like this are often mistaken for precious metals due to their specialized plating, but they are designed strictly for electrical conductivity or magnetic properties.