The combinations of Copper and Nickel are primarily used on base materials such as Iron and Zamac. On iron, the leveling and penetrating power of the copper plating is combined with the luster given by the nickel plating. The combination enhances the quality of the article by increasing, in addition, protection in the salt fog. On Zamac alloys, the copper plating treatment is essential to protect the article from the aggression of the nickel plating bath.

In this case the added combination of the copper plating guarantees the protection of the article from the successive nickel plating treatment. The final result is a golden polished finish and, after bronzing, it is guaranteed a satisfactory service life when the materials are exposed to the corrosive action of external agents.

Even though tin plating from alkaline baths provides ample guarantees of weldability and the capacity for current conduction, there are still requirements for copper plating. This combination is principally dictated by requests of a regulatory nature.

The result obtained is an antique effect. The combination of copper and bronze gives it a reddish and decidedly darker color than bronzing on brass.