Abstract: A cathode for electrolytic refining or electro-winning of copper is disclosed. The cathode comprises a steel hanger bar having a copper cladding and a flat stainless steel starter sheet with a plurality of lugs formed along its upper edge secured to the hanger bar. Alternating lugs are bent, in opposite directions to abut and engage the side faces of the copper-clad hanger bar and are welded to the copper cladding. The lugs can be welded to the bar upper face or to the bar side faces and may have a stainless steel strip explosion bonded to the copper cladding interposed between the lugs and the copper cladding for welding of the lugs to the stainless steel strip.