Pinchbeck is FAUX GOLD  (gold look for a budget price) made from copper and zink. It was invented in the 1700s by watch maker Christopher Pinchbeck at a time when the only gold used in jewelry and watches was 18 karat. In 1854 low carat gold became legal and replaced pinchbeck.

Pinchbeck sometimes called Gilding, was the favored metal for these small coin purse frames.  A close look at the underside, shows the beautifully hand hammered designs.