Some form of resistor, perhaps.
I have been leaning towards something to do with electronis too, not sure why. These were in a box, wrapped carefully in tissue (no newspaper to at least tell me they are older than the paper lol- about 8-10 of them. There was also a bunch of welding, tools and old farm impliments, in there, don't know if that helps spark an idea for anyone..
There is an electronics supply place near my house. One of those old dusty places where HAM operators and tube radio.tv enthusiasts hang out. I am going to take it over there and see if they have any inkling... will report back!