Vintage King's Key Finder Purse Clip

This is a vintage 'King's Key Finder' purse clip accessory, likely dating from the mid-20th century (circa 1950s-1960s). The item features a long, gold-tone metal clip designed to slide over the edge of a purse interior pocket, allowing keys to remain easily accessible. The decorative top is designed as a stylized flower, featuring silver-tone and gold-tone openwork filigree petals around a central light green (peridot-colored) faceted rhinestone. The clip body shows elegant engraved floral scrollwork on the gold-plated surface. Attached to the clip by a short gold-tone link chain is a circular split key ring. Accompanying the item is its original white paper tag printed with black text: 'KING'S Key Finder Los Angeles California.' The condition appears to be excellent vintage condition with minor surface patina and light wear to the gold plating, particularly on the edges of the clip. The craftsmanship is typical of mid-century costume accessories, combining functional utility with feminine, decorative aesthetics. The use of mixed metals (silver and gold tones) and the specific typography on the tag suggest a Southern California manufacturing origin during the post-war boutique accessory boom.

Based on my visual examination of this mid-century 'King's Key Finder,' I find it to be a well-preserved example of 1950s-1960s California-based boutique accessories. The gold-tone plating shows expected minor edge wear but retains its luster, and the central peridot-colored faceted rhinestone appears secure within its filigree setting. The presence of the original 'Los Angeles California' paper tag significantly enhances interest, as it provides a clear geographical and temporal context for the piece. The market for mid-century 'purse charms' and functional accessories remains steady, with specific demand for items that include original branding or ephemera. Comparables for standard unbranded key clips typically range from $15 to $25, but the decorative mixed-metal filigree and the presence of the tag elevate this specific item's value into the $45 to $65 range. The primary value drivers here are the aesthetic appeal of the stylized floral design and the collectibility of vintage Los Angeles manufacturing. Note that this appraisal is based on photographic evidence. A physical inspection would be required to verify the base metal composition (likely brass or pot metal) and to test the rhinestone for material authenticity (glass vs. synthetic). Furthermore, examining the tension of the clip and the integrity of the chain links under magnification is necessary to confirm structural soundess for functional use.