I have just replaced an old defective hood latch on a friend's '57 Nomad. The replacement piece is nickel cadmium and designed beautifully. The long-ago replacement "receiver" that it locks onto is unpainted steel. He is a member of AACA and going for his Grand National Award, where everything must be "as original".
My question: Do any of you know if the "receiver" was originally cadmium plated to match the latch, bare steel, or perhaps painted a flat or gloss black.
Many thanks for your replies.

AJ