Authenticity guaranteed. 
Identical item was sold at sotheby's, london on october 25, 2017 (sale l17223 arts of the islamic world, lot 175). Lot was sold for 12,500 british pounds (it was over $17,000 back in 2017, not included buyers premium). 
Please see last picture for reference.
Important antique indian mughal period elephant goad / ankus. 
Magnificent quality gold decorated royal ceremonial example. 
India, circa 1800.
Made of steel (iron) with stunning bright gold decoration.
Finest quality - meticulous attention to smallest details.
Steel handle with open work.
Six loose round bells inside handle.