Industrial Silver Electrical Contact Rivet/Block
Industrial Silver / Bullion Scrap · Unknown Industrial Manufacturer; potentially an electrical component supplier like Square D or Westinghouse.
Pattern: Non-decorative; Industrial Standard Specification
Type
Industrial Silver / Bullion Scrap
Maker
Unknown Industrial Manufacturer; potentially an electrical component supplier like Square D or Westinghouse.
Material
Likely Silver-Cadmium Oxide or Fine Silver (.999) bonded to a base metal carrier (typically Copper or Brass).
Dimensions
Approximately 1.5cm x 1.5cm cube/block; weight estimated at 10-20 grams depending on internal composition.
Description
This is a heavy-duty electrical contact block. It is not silver jewelry or flatware, but an industrial component featuring a high-purity silver face bonded to a conductive base metal. These are used in industrial circuit breakers and large motor starters.
Key Features
Industrial alphanumeric stamping ('CH701'); geometric square profile; signs of oxidation typical of industrial silver alloys.
Material & Composition
Likely Silver-Cadmium Oxide or Fine Silver (.999) bonded to a base metal carrier (typically Copper or Brass).
Finish & Decoration
Industrial matte/brushed finish; no decorative elements; surface shows mechanical stamping.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Industrial part numbers: '6-28', 'CH701', and an 'S' inside a circle (likely a manufacturer logo or safety certification mark). Not a traditional silver hallmark.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or sintered industrial component; typical of cold-heading or brazing processes during assembly.
Functional Features
Electrical conductivity surface designed for high-voltage arcing resistance in breakers or switches.
Handle & Grip Details
None; geometric block intended for mechanical mounting within an enclosure.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-engineered for electrical tolerance rather than aesthetic beauty; uniform machine stamping.
Authentication Indicators
The alphanumeric codes (6-28, CH701) are consistent with industrial inventory numbering rather than precious metal assaying.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Germany; manufactured in a factory specializing in electrical switchgear.
Era & Period
Modern Industrial Era (late 20th century to present).
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-2000 based on the typeface and industrial stamping style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the vital role of precious metals in modern infrastructure and power distribution rather than domestic artistry.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; shows surface wear, minor pitting consistent with electrical use, and heavy tarnish/grime from manual handling.
Value Estimate
Melt/Scrap value only. Typically $5 to $15 depending on the silver thickness and current spot price.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish with jewelry cleaners; keep dry. If intended for scrap, do not remove the silver coating manually as it may contain cadmium.
Similar Pieces
Silver contact tips from relays; silver bullion bars (though this is lower purity due to the base metal backing).
Interesting Facts
Silver is the most conductive metal on earth, making it essential for high-current electrical contacts where copper would oxidize and fail too quickly.