Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of plating, including, but not limited to electroplating metallic articles, for example metallic discs that can be used as, or converted into, coins. Embodiments of the present invention described herein incorporate luminescent particles into plated metallic layers so that they can be detected for security purposes.

Abstract: Formation of an authentication element by deposition of a metal layer with embedded particles on a metal substrate, wherein the embedded particles are configured to convert energy from one wavelength to another. The embedded particles may be upconverters, downconverters, or phosphorescent phosphors, which can be detected and measured with analytical equipment when deposited in the metal layer. A metal substrate may include coinage.

Abstract: Cold-worked metal articles, methods of forming cold-worked metal articles, and methods of authenticating cold-worked metal articles are provided. In an embodiment, a cold-worked metal article includes a cold-worked metal-containing surface that defines pores. The cold-worked metal-containing surface includes luminescent phosphor particles disposed within the pores. The luminescent phosphor particles include a host crystal lattice material and at least one active ion that includes an absorbing ion and an emitting ion that is different from the absorbing ion. The luminescent phosphor particles are harder than the cold-worked metal-containing surface.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of plating, including, but not limited to electroplating metallic articles, for example metallic discs that can be used as, or converted into, coins. Embodiments of the present invention described herein incorporate luminescent particles into plated metallic layers so that they can be detected for security purposes.

Abstract: Formation of an authentication element by deposition of a metal layer with embedded particles on a metal substrate, wherein the embedded particles are configured to convert energy from one wavelength to another. The embedded particles may be upconverters, downconverters, or phosphorescent phosphors, which can be detected and measured with analytical equipment when deposited in the metal layer. A metal substrate may include coinage.