1980 Nagoya City Science Museum 18th Science Project Contest Commemorative Medal Keychain
Decorative Object (Commemorative Keychain/Medallion) · Unknown manufacturer commissioned by the Nagoya City Science Museum (Japan). These items are typically produced by regional mints or industrial metalworkers specialized in commemorative awards.
Pattern: Nagoya City Science Museum Science Project Contest series; 18th installment in the annual competition.
Type
Decorative Object (Commemorative Keychain/Medallion)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer commissioned by the Nagoya City Science Museum (Japan). These items are typically produced by regional mints or industrial metalworkers specialized in commemorative awards.
Material
Nickel-plated brass or bronze. The item appears to be an industrial base metal alloy with a silver-colored plating that has worn down to reveal a yellowish, brassy base metal underneath (oxidation and brassing). It contains no precious silver content.
Dimensions
Diameter approximately 35-40mm; total weight including hardware is estimated at 15-20 grams. Standard 'oversized' keychain medal proportions.
Description
This is an industrial commemorative keychain issued to participants or winners of the 18th Science Project Contest at the Nagoya City Science Museum in 1980. The circular medallion features raised Kanji text against a granular background. The silver-toned surface shows significant 'brassing,' a process where the outer plating wears away to reveal the yellow base metal, common in mid-century Japanese industrial souvenirs.
Key Features
Bilingual date (1980), specific Japanese Kanji for the Nagoya City Science Museum, and a flexible snake-chain attachment typical of high-quality Japanese souvenirs from the 1970s and 80s.
Material & Composition
Nickel-plated brass or bronze. The item appears to be an industrial base metal alloy with a silver-colored plating that has worn down to reveal a yellowish, brassy base metal underneath (oxidation and brassing). It contains no precious silver content.
Finish & Decoration
Matte industrially brushed finish with raised (bas-relief) Japanese text. Characterized by a 'brushed nickel' aesthetic; no hand engraving or fine jewelry techniques are present.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver purity hallmarks (e.g., 925 or Sterling) are present. The text '第18回 科学工作コンクール 1980 市立名古屋科学館' identifies the event (18th Science Project Contest), the year (1980), and the institution (Nagoya City Science Museum).
Construction Details
Mass-produced via die-striking or industrial casting. The attachment loop is soldered or cast as part of the disk. The chain mechanism is a standard industrial 'snake' or 'flexible' link style attached to a split ring.
Functional Features
Standard keychain split ring for keys and a flexible neck for mobility. The primary function is commemorative identification.
Handle & Grip Details
Stainless steel or chrome-plated steel snake chain and split-ring keychain assembly.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality. The die-striking is crisp and legible, showing the high standards of Japanese industrial manufacturing even for relatively common promotional items.
Authentication Indicators
The item is authentic as a piece of museum memorabilia. It is not authentic 'silver' (Sterling), as indicated by the yellow tones of the revealed base metal and the lack of purity stamps.
Origin & Manufacturing
Nagoya, Japan. Manufactured likely by a Japanese industrial badge/awards company for the municipal government.
Era & Period
Late Showa Period (1980). A time of high technological optimism in Japan, reflected in museum-sponsored science competitions for students.
Age Estimate
Dated 1980; approximately 44 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war Japanese 'Science and Technology' culture, where educational milestones were celebrated with high-quality metal keepsakes.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is significant loss of plating (brassing) across the surface, especially on raised surfaces. Minor pitting and surface scratches are visible. The attachment hardware remains functional.
Value Estimate
$10.00 – $25.00 USD. Value is driven by historical/nostalgic interest in Japanese science history rather than metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use silver polish, as it will further remove the remaining thin nickel/chrome plating. Clean with a soft damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Similar Pieces
Expo '70 Osaka commemorative medals, various Japanese school graduation pins, and other Nagoya City event keychains from the 1980s.
Interesting Facts
The Nagoya City Science Museum is famous for having one of the world's largest planetariums. These medals were part of Japan's push to encourage STEM education among youth during their economic boom era.