Quarterbore's Forums - Gold wash on blade and crossguard

Hi, New to the forum here. I just picked up a Buck 188 C U.S.A. Its not minty and its not a presented type with gold plate. This thing has a gold wash on the crossguard and the blade. It does not wipe off with solvent(y) type stuff. I will load some pics on my site tonight and post here if anyone wants? I mainly collect german edged stuff and this is not a gilt type of thing. Only other M9 I own is a 188> or< cant remember now, with a EDMF knuck grip w/ leather not para cord ( guess I like the odd ones:) ) If this gold wash thing is common no biggie, it just took me back a bit when I pulled it out of the scabbard. Also if this is common I wont post the pic. Thank You, Bret